Top Government officials hail Lookman and others over CAF awards

President Bola Tinubu, along with other notable Nigerians, congratulated Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman for winning the 2024 CAF Men’s African Footballer of the Year award. Tinubu also praised Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie for receiving the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award and commended the Super Falcons for being named Women’s National Team of the Year. These awards were announced on Monday night at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco.

In his statement, Tinubu celebrated the athletes, describing them as proud representatives of Nigeria who have brought honor to the country on both continental and global stages. He expressed confidence that their achievements would inspire other young athletes to stay focused on their dreams. The president emphasized that the athletes’ determination, discipline, and confidence align with his administration’s goal of building a thriving nation. He further expressed immense pride in their accomplishments, thanking them for keeping Nigeria’s flag flying high.

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The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, also sent her congratulations, acknowledging the athletes’ dedication and talent. She praised Nnadozie and Lookman for their achievements and recognized the Super Falcons for their ongoing representation of Nigerian women’s resilience and strength.

In a separate initiative, the First Lady distributed N1.9 billion to elderly Nigerians aged 65 and above across the country as part of the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Elderly Support Scheme. The initiative provided financial support, free medical check-ups, and other items to beneficiaries, including military veterans.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio also congratulated Nnadozie and the Super Falcons, highlighting their resilience and teamwork. He specifically celebrated Lookman’s achievement as the CAF Men’s Player of the Year, noting that it reflected his hard work and exceptional talent.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan supported another Nigerian athlete, weightlifter Matthew Ovayioza, with a N2 million donation to help him access financial sponsorship and international training facilities. Ovayioza won two gold medals at the Weightlifting World Championship in Bahrain.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu joined in congratulating Lookman, Nnadozie, and the Super Falcons, calling them worthy ambassadors who have brought pride to Nigeria. He expressed hope that their success would inspire the next generation of footballers in Nigeria.

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma also praised Nnadozie for her dedication to her craft, calling her a true ambassador of Imo State, Nigeria, and Africa. He congratulated Lookman for his award as well, highlighting the significance of these achievements for Nigerian football.