Nigerian footballers Ademola Lookman and William Troost-Ekong have been nominated for the prestigious 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award, further cementing their influence on African football. Both players have demonstrated remarkable performances throughout the year, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s international campaigns and their respective club successes.
Ademola Lookman, who plays for Atalanta in Italy’s Serie A, has been a standout player for both his club and the Nigerian national team. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scoring key goals, including a brace in Nigeria’s 3-0 victory over Benin in a qualifier. Lookman’s impressive form in 2024 places him as one of the top contenders for the award. If he wins, he would follow in the footsteps of his compatriot, Victor Osimhen, who won the title in 2023, marking a consecutive Nigerian win for the CAF award.
William Troost-Ekong, on the other hand, has also had a stellar year, particularly during the 2023 AFCON, where he was named Player of the Tournament. His defensive prowess and leadership were critical in Nigeria’s journey to the AFCON final, where they narrowly lost to Ivory Coast. As Nigeria’s key defender, Troost-Ekong has been praised for his consistency and commanding performances, which have earned him recognition as one of the continent’s best players this year.
This nomination is a significant milestone in both players’ careers, as they join an elite group of footballers vying for one of Africa’s most coveted individual accolades. With Nigeria producing top-tier talents like Osimhen, Lookman, and Troost-Ekong, the country’s influence on African football continues to grow, promising a bright future for its players on the international stage. The winners of the CAF awards are expected to be announced in December, with all eyes on these Nigerian stars to see if they can bring the title home.
