AFCON 2025
Ademola Lookman, recently crowned African Footballer of the Year and Atalanta’s Europa League hero, made an emotional return to Lagos Island this week, reconnecting with his ancestral roots in the Adeniji Adele community.
The 27-year-old forward, who scored a historic hat-trick in the 2024 UEFA Europa League final, was welcomed with jubilation by residents of Adeniji Adele Phase 2.
The community had previously celebrated his achievements, displaying banners from the “Lookman Ademola Fans Club” ahead of Nigeria’s 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Ivory Coast.
Born in Wandsworth, London, to Nigerian parents, Lookman’s journey from the streets of Peckham to international football stardom is a testament to resilience and determination.
Despite early setbacks in his football career, he persevered, eventually making his mark in European football and choosing to represent Nigeria at the senior level.
His decision to play for Nigeria has been met with widespread acclaim. “Choosing Nigeria was the best decision I ever made,” Lookman stated in a previous interview.
“The unwavering support and love I get from our people back home are unbelievable. It gives me the motivation to inspire myself in different areas, not just in my game but also as a person”.
The forward is highly sought-after by the biggest clubs Europe as he prepares to leave Atalanta in the summer.
