Ogenyi Onazi backs Ademola Lookman for 2024 CAF Player of the Year after remarkable season
Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has emerged as a favourite to win the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award, following a sensational season with both club and country.
Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has expressed strong support for Lookman’s nomination, stating that the Atalanta forward has demonstrated all the qualities required to claim the prestigious title.
“Lookman is an exceptional talent,” Onazi remarked in an interview with Brila FM. “His hard work, commitment, and discipline set him apart.”
The 26-year-old Lookman is among the 10 nominees for the award, competing alongside notable players such as Simon Adingra, Edmond Tapsoba, and fellow Nigerian William Troost-Ekong.
Lookman had a standout year, beginning with his remarkable performance for Nigeria at AFCON 2023. His year continued with historic achievements for Atalanta, including becoming the first African player to score a hat-trick in a European final, leading Atalanta to victory over Bayer Leverkusen.
His excellence also earned him a spot in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings, where he finished 14th, making him the only African player nominated.
Onazi, a 2013 AFCON champion, believes Lookman is the clear choice to succeed Victor Osimhen as Africa’s top player, praising his Ballon d’Or nomination as further validation of his talent. “CAF should prepare the trophy for him; it’s not just about him being Nigerian, but because he truly is the finest player in Africa right now,” Onazi added.
