President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Ademola Lookman, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and the Super Falcons for their triumphs at the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco, describing them as symbols of the indomitable Nigerian spirit.
The President’s message was conveyed in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, titled: ‘President Tinubu congratulates Lookman, Nnadozie, Super Falcons on CAF Awards.’
The awards ceremony, held on Monday night at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, showcased the outstanding achievements of Nigerian footballers on both continental and international levels.
Tinubu said:
“These athletes embody the essential Nigerian spirit. They represent the best in us as a nation. Let no one ever write us off. I am incredibly proud of them.
“Thank you for making Nigeria proud and keeping our flag flying. Thank you for winning medals for Nigeria both at home and abroad. You will win more in the future.”
The President described the award winners as worthy ambassadors, inspiring the next generation of athletes to pursue their dreams with discipline and determination. He also affirmed his administration’s commitment to building a Nigeria where everyone can thrive and succeed.
Ademola Lookman: African Player of the Year
Ademola Lookman’s incredible year culminated in being crowned the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year, beating top contenders such as Côte d’Ivoire’s Simon Adingra, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams.
Lookman’s stellar form for Italian club Atalanta saw him play a crucial role in their historic UEFA Europa League triumph, scoring a remarkable hat-trick in the final—securing Atalanta’s first major trophy in 61 years.
On the international stage, Lookman’s brilliance helped the Super Eagles reach the final of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where they narrowly lost to hosts Côte d’Ivoire. Lookman scored three goals in the tournament and earned a spot in the Team of the Tournament, further cementing his status as one of Africa’s finest football talents.
Chiamaka Nnadozie: Africa’s Best Women’s Goalkeeper
Chiamaka Nnadozie, Nigeria’s exceptional goalkeeper, retained her title as African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year for the second consecutive year. She triumphed over Morocco’s Khadija Er-Rmichi and South Africa’s Andile Dlamini to claim the coveted award.
Nnadozie’s performances for both the Super Falcons and her club have solidified her reputation as one of the continent’s finest goalkeepers.
Super Falcons: National Team of the Year
The Super Falcons were honored as the National Team of the Year, a testament to their dominance and outstanding performances on the continental stage.
Nigerian stars, including Asisat Oshoala, Osinachi Ohale, and Rasheedat Ajibade, were also named in the CAF Women’s Best XI, highlighting Nigeria’s stronghold in women’s football.
Tinubu’s congratulatory message celebrates these athletes’ achievements, which continue to showcase Nigeria’s talent and resilience on the global stage, reinforcing the belief that Nigerians “should never be written off.”
