•Says no one should write us off
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye and Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu and the Senate President Godswill Akpabio has congratulated Nigerian footballers Ademola Lookman and Chiamaka Nnadozie as well as the Super Falcons following their remarkable achievements at the 2024 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards held Monday night at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech.
Ademola Lookman, a forward for the Super Eagles, was honoured with the title of CAF Men’s African Footballer of the Year. His outstanding performances throughout the year have established him as a key figure in Nigerian football, earning him recognition on both the continental and international stages.
Chiamaka Nnadozie, goalkeeper for the Super Falcons, also received accolades at the event, winning the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award. Nnadozie’s exceptional skills have been pivotal in her team’s success, contributing to their recognition as the Women’s National Team of the Year.
According to a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating these achievements, highlighting the athletes as exemplary representatives of Nigeria. He noted that their successes not only bring honour to the country but also inspire future generations of athletes.
‘‘These athletes who 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,” the President said.
The CAF Awards ceremony showcased Nigeria’s prominent position in African football, with both the men’s and women’s teams receiving significant accolades.
On his part, President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio congratulated Ademola Lookman.
Akpabio, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh on Tuesday, also congratulated the Super Falcons goal keeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie for emerging as the Women’s Goal Keeper of theYear.
He also hailed the National female team, Super Falcons for winning the Women’s National Team of the Year Award.
He said “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 indeed 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.”