Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has commended Ademola Lookman and Chiamaka Nnadozie for their remarkable victories at the 2024 CAF Awards, describing their achievements as a testament to Nigerian resilience and excellence.
The prestigious ceremony, held at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco, saw Lookman crowned CAF Men’s Player of the Year, while Super Falcons’ goalkeeper Nnadozie won the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award. Additionally, the Nigerian women’s national team, the Super Falcons, claimed the Women’s National Team of the Year title.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu emphasized the significance of these accomplishments for Nigeria’s global reputation.
“These athletes reflect the indomitable Nigerian spirit and the greatness of our nation. No one should ever doubt our potential. I am immensely proud of them,” Tinubu stated.
Highlighting football’s unifying role in Nigeria, Tinubu expressed gratitude to the athletes for their contributions: “Thank you for making Nigeria proud, for flying our flag high, and for winning medals both at home and abroad. Greater successes await you.”
The president further expressed hope that their successes would inspire the next generation of African athletes, emphasizing that their dedication and discipline illustrate what can be achieved.
Lookman’s stellar 2024 season marked a defining period in African football. With 27 goals and 13 assists in 57 matches for both club and country, his standout hat-trick in the Europa League final for Atalanta solidified his reputation. He also earned a place in the 2023 TotalEnergies AFCON Team of the Year despite Nigeria narrowly missing out on the title.
Similarly, Nnadozie has emerged as a symbol of excellence in African women’s football. Her exceptional displays for Nigeria and Paris FC have earned her widespread acclaim as the continent’s to goalkeeper.
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