Tinubu, Akpabio commend Lookman, Nnadozie, Super Falcons for making Nigeria proud
Abdullateef Fowewe
President Bola Tinubu and the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, have congratulated the Super Eagles and Atlanta star, Ademola Lookman on winning the 2024 CAF Men’s African Footballer of the Year.
Both leader also hailed Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie for clinching the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award and the Super Falcons for being named the Women’s National Team of the Year.
Dailyeconomy reported that the awards were announced on Monday evening at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco.
Tinubu in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating these athletes, describing them as worthy ambassadors for showcasing their talent and bringing honour to the country on the continental and world stage.
Tinubu believes that this recognition by Africa’s highest football authority will inspire other upcoming athletes to remain steadfast in pursuing their dreams.
Tinubu said, “These athletes embody the essential Nigerian Spirit. They signpost the best in us as a nation. Let no one ever write us off. I am incredibly proud of them.
“Thank you for making Nigeria proud and keeping our flag flying.
“Thank you for winning medals for Nigeria both at home and abroad. You will win more in the future.”
While the Senate President in a statement on Tuesday, by his special adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, extolled Lookman’s exceptional skills and prowess stating, “I wish to congratulate one of our finest footballers and an international superstar, Ademola Lookman on his well-deserved win as the CAF Men’s Player of the Year.
“This prestigious award is a testament to Lookman’s hard work, dedication, and exceptional skills on the football pitch.
“I would also like to celebrate our amiable and talented Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, who has won the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award for the second consecutive year. Her outstanding performance is an inspiration to young Nigerian girls who aspire to excel in sports.
“Furthermore, I commend the Super Falcons for emerging as the Women’s National Team of the Year. This achievement demonstrates the team’s resilience, teamwork, and commitment to excellence.
“These awards are not only a proud moment for Nigerian football but also a reflection of our nation’s rich sporting talent. We are honoured to have such exceptional athletes representing Nigeria on the global stage.
“The Senate and in deed the National Assembly under my leadership would continue to support sports through enabling laws and adequate appropriations to harness all the hidden talents in the country.
“Once again, I congratulate Ademola Lookman, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and the Super Falcons on their remarkable achievements.”