Mary Onyali praises Ademola Lookman: “Deserving, Proud Nigerian”

Nigerian sprint legend Mary Onyali expressed deep pride after meeting and celebrating Ademola Lookman, who was recently named the CAF Men’s Player of the Year 2024 at the prestigious awards ceremony in Marrakech. Onyali, a five time Olympian and a celebrated figure in Nigerian athletics, took to social media to share her joy, posting a selfie with Lookman alongside a heartfelt caption “Lookman looked the part tonight DESERVING I’m super proud being a Nigerian tonight.”

Her words capture the widespread pride felt across the nation as Lookman joins the pantheon of elite Nigerian footballers to receive this honour. This marks the second consecutive year a Nigerian player has been awarded, following Victor Osimhen’s triumph in 2023.

Lookman’s achievement crowns a remarkable year, fuelled by his impressive performances for Italian club Atalanta and the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles. The CAF Awards in Marrakech brought together top football figures to celebrate the brightest stars of African football, and Lookman’s victory was a standout moment.

Onyali’s celebration of Lookman also highlights the mutual respect and unity among Nigerian athletes across various sports. Her recognition of his success underscores how achievements in one sporting discipline inspire and resonate across the entire Nigerian sports community.

Editorial

Ademola Lookman’s crowning as the CAF Men’s Player of the Year is not just a personal triumph but a moment of collective national pride. Nigeria has long been a powerhouse in African football, and Lookman’s success builds on this proud legacy. Coming on the heels of Victor Osimhen’s 2023 win, this back-to-back recognition is proof of Nigeria’s continued dominance on the continental stage.

In recent years, Lookman has demonstrated remarkable growth, with standout performances for Atalanta in Serie A and the Super Eagles. His consistency, technical skill, and composure under pressure make him a deserving winner of this accolade. Beyond individual accolades, Lookman’s rise serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring Nigerian footballers, showing that perseverance and hard work can earn global recognition.

Mary Onyali’s reaction is equally significant. Her words remind us that success in sport transcends disciplines and unites the nation. As one of Nigeria’s most revered athletes, Onyali’s pride reflects how sporting achievements inspire not just fans but also fellow athletes who understand the sacrifices behind the glory.

Lookman’s story is one of determination and excellence, attributes that define Nigeria’s sports culture. As we celebrate this victory, we must also commit to nurturing future talents by improving infrastructure, coaching, and opportunities for young athletes. Nigeria’s sporting greatness is built on a foundation of legends like Onyali and rising stars like Lookman, and it is our responsibility to ensure this tradition endures.

Ademola Lookman’s success is a moment of joy for Nigeria, a reminder of the country’s sporting brilliance, and a promise of even greater achievements to come.

Did You Know?

1. Ademola Lookman was born in London but chose to represent Nigeria internationally, making his debut for the Super Eagles in 2022.
2. Lookman played a crucial role in Atalanta’s 2023 UEFA Europa League campaign, scoring several key goals.
3. The CAF Awards were first held in 1992, and Nigerian players have won the Men’s Player of the Year award more than any other nation.
4. Victor Osimhen was the last Nigerian to win the CAF Player of the Year award before Lookman, securing the title in 2023.
5. Mary Onyali is the first Nigerian to compete in five consecutive Olympic Games, from 1988 to 2004.