Nigerian international footballer Ademola Lookman has officially presented his Confederation of African Football (CAF) Player of the Year award to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a ceremony at the Lagos State Government House on Friday.

The presentation took place during President Tinubu's two-day visit to Lagos State, with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also in attendance at the event.

Lookman, 27, was crowned Africa's best player at a ceremony held in Marrakech, Morocco in December last year, succeeding fellow Nigerian Victor Osimhen who had claimed the prestigious award in 2023.

Remarkable Achievements

The Atalanta winger earned continental recognition primarily for his outstanding performances for the Super Eagles during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d'Ivoire. Throughout the tournament, Lookman scored three goals and provided one assist in seven appearances, playing a crucial role in Nigeria's campaign.

His club achievements were equally impressive, with Lookman playing an instrumental role in Atalanta's UEFA Europa League triumph last season. His most memorable performance came in the final against Bayer Leverkusen, where he netted a remarkable hat-trick to secure the trophy for the Italian side.

This presentation marks a significant moment of national pride, as Lookman becomes the latest Nigerian footballer to be honored at the highest level of African football, continuing the country's rich tradition of producing world-class talent.

The meeting between the football star and the Nigerian president highlights the importance of sports as a unifying factor and source of national pride in Nigeria.