“This award is a blessing. Four years ago, my career fell, but now I’m here as the best player in Africa. Don’t let your failures stop your dreams.”

Ademola Lookman has been crowned African Footballer of the Year by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), a fitting recognition for the 27-year-old forward after a phenomenal year on the pitch.

Lookman played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s historic Europa League triumph, scoring a hat-trick in their 3-1 final victory over Bayer Leverkusen in Dublin. 

Earlier in the year, he was instrumental in Nigeria’s impressive run to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in the Ivory Coast, where he netted three goals for the Super Eagles.

Accepting the award, Lookman shared an emotional reflection: “This award is a blessing. 

Four years ago, my career fell, but now I’m here as the best player in Africa. 

Don’t let your failures stop your dreams.”Lookman emerged ahead of an elite group of finalists, including Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams.

By claiming the accolade, Lookman becomes the seventh Nigerian to earn the prestigious title, joining legends like Nwankwo Kanu, Emmanuel Amunike, Rashidi Yekini, and last year’s winner Victor Osimhen.

In the women’s category, Zambia’s Barbra Banda took home the African Women’s Player of the Year award. 

Banda’s triumph is particularly inspiring, as she overcame previous gender eligibility challenges to shine on the world stage, representing her country at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and this year’s Paris Olympics.

CAF’s awards, voted on by national team coaches and captains, solidify Lookman and Banda’s places among Africa’s finest football talents.