Ademola Lookman from Nigeria has been named Africa's Best International Footballer at the Ghana Football Awards in Accra. As reported by The Nation News, Lookman, who plays for Atalanta, received this honor due to his remarkable performances for both his club and Nigeria's national team, the Super Eagles.
Lookman's highlight of the season was his crucial role in Atalanta's UEFA Europa League victory, where he scored a hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. This achievement helped him surpass fellow nominees Victor Boniface and Edmund Tapsoba to win the title.
At 24, Lookman is also a strong contender for Africa's top individual football award this year. He follows in the footsteps of his compatriot Victor Osimhen, who won the award last year after leading Napoli to the Serie A title and earning the CAF Africa's Best Player accolade.
Lookman's impressive season included leading Nigeria to the Africa Cup of Nations final and contributing significantly to Atalanta's fourth-place finish in Serie A, with 17 goals and 10 assists in all competitions.
In a video message, Lookman expressed his gratitude: “Thank you for the consideration, the recognition, and the votes. This means a lot to me and my family. I wish I was in Ghana, but my heart is with you all. Thank you and God bless.”
West Ham United's Mohammed Kudus also stood out at the Ghana Football Awards. He won two awards, including Ghana Player of the Year, for his excellent season in England and his impact during the Africa Cup of Nations. Kudus' solo goal against Freiburg in the UEFA Europa League was named the best goal of the night, enhancing his reputation as a rising star in African football. His versatility and skill have earned him admiration from fans and critics alike.