Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, has celebrated Ademola Lookman’s victory as the 2024 CAF Player of the Year, describing it as a milestone achievement that reflects dedication and inspires hope for Nigerian sports.
Olopade also lauded Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who won the Goalkeeper of the Year award, and the Super Falcons, crowned Women’s Team of the Year.
Despite his busy schedule, Honourable Olopade attended the prestigious awards ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco, to personally support Lookman, the 27-year-old forward for Atalanta and the Super Eagles.
“Lookman’s triumph, alongside Nnadozie’s, is a testament to the talent, hard work, and resilience of Nigerian athletes,” Olopade said. “It reflects the nation’s renewed commitment to sports development under this administration.”
He added, “It was a remarkable night for Nigerian football, with our male and female players shining individually and the Super Falcons clinching the award for Best Women’s Team of the Year. Lookman’s win is well-deserved—he stood out among his peers across the continent.”
Olopade further highlighted the significance of Nnadozie’s achievement, calling it a major motivator for increased focus on empowering women in sports.
“These victories boost morale and serve as an inspiration for the next generation of Nigerian athletes. They reinforce our resolve to chart a transformative path in sports administration, unlocking the immense potential of our youth on the global stage,” Olopade concluded.
The NSC DG remains optimistic that these accolades will ignite a golden era for Nigerian sports, uniting the nation in celebration and ambition.