Ademola Lookman, African Player Award and The Super Eagles

By Patrick Ngwaogu (Odogwu)

Ademola Lookman’s historic triumph as the 2024 African Player of the Year marked a watershed moment not only for the talented forward but also for the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles and the Nigeria Football Federation led by Ibrahim Gusau.

Lookman’s recognition represents a monumental achievement that resonates beyond individual brilliance; it underscores the growing strength of Nigerian football and the potential of the Super Eagles as they prepare for the remaining matches of the World Cup 2026 Qualifiers.

The impact of this award can be explored through multiple lenses, including boosting the morale of the team, elevating the international reputation of Nigerian football, motivating young talents, attracting global attention to Nigerian players, and influencing the tactical and strategic direction of the national team. Lookman’s success is not just about one individual, it is a victory for Nigerian football as a whole.

Born in Wandsworth, England, to Nigerian parents, Ademola Lookman’s footballing career began at Charlton Athletic. After stints at Everton, RB Leipzig, Fulham, Leicester City, and currently, Atalanta in Italy, Lookman has emerged as one of the brightest stars in European football.

His stellar performances for Atalanta, including a historic hat-trick in the 2024 UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, and his instrumental role in Nigeria’s journey to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in 2023, cemented his place among the continent’s elite.
The African Player of the Year award reflects his consistency, impact, and extraordinary ability to rise to big occasions.

For the Super Eagles, Lookman’s success brings numerous tangible and intangible gains that will positively influence the team in the new year, as the qualifiers begin in March.

One of the immediate gains of Lookman’s award is the significant morale boost it provides to the Super Eagles. Having a player recognized as Africa’s best serves as a powerful source of motivation for the entire squad.

Lookman’s achievement demonstrates to his teammates that success at the highest level is attainable. The realization that a fellow team member can compete and win against the best players on the continent will inspire others to work harder and strive for similar recognition. Such individual accolades foster a winning mentality within the team, driving players to believe in their ability to achieve greatness on both personal and team levels.

For a team like the Super Eagles, which thrives on passion, energy, and unity, Lookman’s success can serve as a rallying point for upcoming competitions, including the World Cup qualifiers and the next AFCON tournament. It creates a positive atmosphere, builds team cohesion, and strengthens the players’ resolve to win titles for Nigeria.

Lookman’s triumph on such a prestigious stage elevates the reputation of Nigerian football globally. Historically, Nigeria has produced some of Africa’s most celebrated footballers, including Nwankwo Kanu, Jay-Jay Okocha, Rashidi Yekini, and Victor Ikpeba. However, in recent years, the Super Eagles have struggled to replicate their dominance on the continental stage, leading to concerns about the team’s trajectory.

Lookman’s success provides a reminder of Nigeria’s rich footballing heritage and reaffirms the country’s status as a powerhouse of African football. By winning the African Player of the Year award, Lookman joins an exclusive list of Nigerian legends who have achieved this feat, such as Kanu Nwankwo and Emmanuel Amunike.

This recognition highlights the talent and depth within Nigerian football, helping to restore the country’s reputation as a breeding ground for world-class footballers. The global spotlight on Lookman also shines brightly on his Super Eagles teammates, creating opportunities for them to gain greater visibility and recognition.

Lookman’s journey to becoming Africa’s best is a powerful inspiration for aspiring young footballers in Nigeria and the diaspora. Many Nigerian youths dream of emulating their footballing heroes, and Lookman’s success offers a tangible example of what hard work, dedication, and perseverance can achieve.

His story, one of overcoming challenges, adapting to various leagues across Europe, and seizing opportunities on big stages serves as a lesson for young players to stay focused on their goals. The visibility of his success will encourage academies across Nigeria to invest more in nurturing talent, knowing that their efforts can produce players of Lookman’s caliber.

Moreover, Lookman’s success as a dual-national player who chose to represent Nigeria over England reinforces the pride of wearing the Super Eagles jersey. It sends a clear message to other Nigerian players in the diaspora: that success can still be achieved while representing their country of origin. Lookman’s decision to represent Nigeria and his subsequent triumph will motivate more dual-national players to commit to the Super Eagles, strengthening the team’s talent pool.

Winning the African Player of the Year award has also brought increased attention to Nigerian players on the global stage. Clubs, scouts, and football enthusiasts worldwide will now pay closer attention to Nigeria’s football ecosystem.

This recognition will benefit not just Lookman but also other members of the Super Eagles, as it enhances their market value and visibility. European clubs will now be more willing to scout and sign Nigerian players, knowing the country produces world-class talent. Lookman’s performances and subsequent recognition will make other Nigerian players more appealing in the global transfer market.

This exposure can lead to more Nigerian players moving to top European clubs, where they can develop their skills further, gain experience, and bring that quality back to the national team. In essence, Lookman’s success serves as a spotlight, putting Nigerian footballers on the radar of global football stakeholders.

Lookman’s style of play, versatility, and individual brilliance are assets to the Super Eagles’ tactical framework. His ability to play as a winger, forward, or attacking midfielder provides the team with flexibility and unpredictability in attack.

Winning the African Player of the Year award underscores his importance to the team and will encourage the coaching staff to build the squad around his strengths.

Furthermore, Lookman’s success will be meaningful and push other players to improve their performance to the five outstanding matches in the world cup qualifiers. his level, fostering healthy competition within the squad.

Winning an individual award often brings out a player’s leadership qualities, as they are seen as role models within the team.

Lookman’s achievement positions him as a leader and inspiration for the Super Eagles.

Ademola Lookman’s victory as the African Player of the Year is a defining moment for both the player and the Super Eagles. His achievement goes beyond individual accolades; it represents the resurgence of Nigerian football and reaffirms the country’s status as a football powerhouse.

The gains for the Super Eagles are numerous and far-reaching. From boosting team morale and inspiring young players to elevating the reputation of Nigerian football and attracting global attention, Lookman’s success has set the stage for a brighter future.

(Patrick Ngwaogu is the Executive Director of www.exclusivenews.com.ng)