In a glittering ceremony held in Marrakech, Morocco, Ademola Lookman was crowned the 2024 African Player of the Year, capping off a remarkable season for the Nigerian forward. The 27-year-old Atalanta star edged out fierce competition from Morocco's Achraf Hakimi, Ivory Coast's Simon Adingra, Guinea's Serhou Guirassy, and South Africa's Ronwen Williams to claim the prestigious accolade.
Lookman's exceptional year was highlighted by his stellar performances both at the club and international levels. He played a pivotal role in Atalanta's Europa League triumph, scoring a historic hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. This feat made him only the sixth player ever to net a treble in a European final and the first since 1975.
On the international stage, Lookman was instrumental in Nigeria's journey to the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations final, contributing three crucial goals along the way. His consistent brilliance throughout the year also earned him a spot on the Ballon d'Or shortlist, where he finished an impressive 14th.
The Atalanta forward's domestic form has been equally impressive. In the 2023-24 season, Lookman amassed 17 goals and 10 assists across all competitions. He has carried this form into the current campaign, netting 11 times in 19 appearances and helping Atalanta to the top of the Serie A table.
Upon receiving the award, an elated Lookman said, “This is something incredible. To the youth of Africa, I say never give up. Turn pain to power.”
The women's category saw Zambian striker Barbra Banda claim the top honor, becoming the first player from her country to win the award. Banda's exceptional performances for Orlando Pride in the NWSL and her country at the Olympics set her apart from the competition.
The CAF Awards ceremony also recognized other outstanding achievements in African football. South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams won the Men's Goalkeeper of the Year and Men's Interclub Player of the Year awards. Nigeria's Super Falcons were named the Women's National Team of the Year, while Ivory Coast claimed the Men's National Team of the Year title.
As Lookman succeeds his compatriot Victor Osimhen as the African Player of the Year, his triumph marks another proud moment for Nigerian football and cements his status as one of the continent's brightest stars.
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