In a dazzling ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday, Ademola Lookman, the forward for Atalanta and the Nigerian national team, was named the 2024 CAF Player of the Year.
It was a historic achievement for the 26-year-old, who has had an exceptional year on both club and international levels.
The award was a testament to his commitment, hard work, and, most importantly, his humble nature.
Lookman’s father, a proud man who has watched his son’s journey from the very beginning, sat down for an exclusive interview with journalist Calister Ojonugwa Enejele right after the ceremony.
“I am so proud of him,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “He is a very committed player, very humble. He doesn’t like too much publicity. He wants to focus on his football, and that is what has taken him to this level.”
The journey to greatness was not a simple one. For Lookman, it was a combination of talent, discipline, and a relentless focus on his craft.
His father made it clear that his son’s success was never about the fame or awards. It was about staying grounded and always working hard to improve.
A Year of Glory for Lookman
Ademola Lookman’s rise to the top of African football has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2024, he was at the heart of Atalanta’s success in Serie A, earning praise for his performances and leadership on the field.
He also played a crucial role for Nigeria in international competitions, further solidifying his place among the continent’s elite footballers.
His consistency and ability to perform on both the domestic and international stage were key factors in his CAF Player of the Year victory.
The title is a recognition of his talent, but also of his unwavering dedication to the game.
Why Humility Plays a Key Role in His Success
One of the key qualities that Lookman’s father attributes to his son’s rise is humility.
In an era where football stars often make headlines for their off-field antics or flashy lifestyles, Lookman has remained grounded. He shies away from the limelight, preferring instead to let his performances speak for themselves.
“It’s not about the fame,” his father explained. “It’s about being committed to your game and doing your best. He’s not here for the attention, he’s here to play football, and that’s why he’s been successful.”
His humble approach has earned him the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike. It has also set him apart from many of his contemporaries, who often find themselves distracted by the distractions that come with fame.
In fact, Lookman’s modest nature is a core part of his identity, and it’s something that his father has always encouraged him to maintain.
“I have always told him to stay humble, to remember where he came from,” Lookman’s father revealed. “And he has done that. He’s never forgotten his roots, and that’s why people love him.”
The Power of Focus and Commitment
Another key factor in Lookman’s success is his focus. The young forward has always been dedicated to perfecting his craft.
His father recalls how Lookman would spend hours practicing, perfecting his skills, and working on his fitness. This dedication to the game is what has driven him to reach the heights he now enjoys.
Lookman’s father was quick to emphasize that his son’s success was not achieved overnight. It took years of hard work, sacrifices, and a clear focus on his football career.
“He’s always been committed to football,” Lookman’s father said. “Even when things were tough, he never gave up. He kept pushing, kept working, and now look at him.”
This dedication to his career has paid off, as Lookman’s performances over the past year have been exceptional. He has earned a spot among the best players in Africa and has set a shining example for young players across the continent.
A New Chapter for Nigerian Football
Lookman’s victory at the 2024 CAF Awards has also been a source of pride for Nigeria. His win brings the total number of Nigerian players who have won the prestigious award to six, putting Nigeria among the most successful countries in the history of the CAF Player of the Year Award.
The victory is a significant milestone for Nigerian football, which continues to produce world-class talents year after year.
As Lookman’s career progresses, many fans and pundits are already predicting that this is just the beginning for the talented forward.
A Star Who Represents Hope
Ademola Lookman’s success is not only a personal achievement but also an inspiration to young footballers in Nigeria and across Africa. His story is one of resilience, hard work, and a refusal to be distracted by the trappings of fame.
For his father, this recognition is the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in his son’s potential.
“He deserves this,” Lookman’s father concluded. “He’s worked hard for it, and he’s earned it.”
As Lookman returns to his club duties with Atalanta and continues his journey with the Super Eagles, one thing is clear: his focus, humility, and commitment to football will remain his guiding principles as he looks to achieve even greater things in the future.
Lookman’s victory is a reminder that success in football, and in life, is about more than just talent—it’s about staying grounded, staying focused, and always striving to improve.
Lookman’s Rise: A Lesson in Humility and Hard Work
Lookman’s achievement is not just a win for him, but for the values of humility, focus, and hard work that every Nigerian can aspire to. His victory serves as a beacon of hope for young athletes everywhere, showing that dedication and a grounded mindset can lead to great success.
Lookman’s story is one that will be remembered for years to come as a testament to what can be achieved when a player’s focus and commitment align with their natural talent.
