Ademola Lookman, Super Eagles winger and 2024 CAF Footballer of the Year, was received by President Bola Tinubu at his residence in Lagos on Friday.
The 27-year-old footballer brought along his prestigious award during the courtesy visit, marking a proud moment for Nigerian football.
Lookman earned the accolade last December, succeeding compatriot Victor Osimhen, who won the title in 2023. His recognition follows a standout 2023/24 season in which he dazzled for both club and country.
At club level, Lookman scored 17 goals and registered 11 assists for Italian side Atalanta. He famously netted a hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, securing Atalanta’s first-ever European trophy.
On the international stage, Lookman was a standout performer at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire. He scored three crucial goals as Nigeria finished runners-up, and was named in the tournament’s Best XI alongside team captain William Troost-Ekong.
Returning to Nigeria after the 2024/25 season, Lookman capped another stellar year by helping Atalanta secure a third-place finish in Serie A, scoring 20 goals across all competitions.
His visit to President Tinubu reflects national pride in his achievements and the continued rise of Nigerian football on the global stage.