Super Eagles star and reigning CAF African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman has revealed how his decision to represent Nigeria instead of England became a defining moment in his career and personal life.
The 27-year-old Atalanta forward described the switch as transformative, saying “That decision changed everything – my career, my life, my whole identity. Nigeria is my home. This is where I belong. I’m proud to be a son of the soil.”
Born in London, Lookman represented England at youth levels before committing to Nigeria in 2022. His career reached new heights this season when he scored a historic hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, securing Atalanta’s first European trophy. The winger credits his success to relentless work ethic, stating “It’s about daily discipline. When you put in the work consistently, the confidence follows. Even during tough times – like my difficult loan spell at Fulham where I missed that penalty – I kept believing.”
Lookman’s 22-goal season earned him the African Footballer of the Year award, an honor he describes as humbling. “Seeing my name alongside African legends is surreal. I don’t take it lightly – it’s a blessing and a responsibility,” he said. The player recently returned to Lagos with his CAF award, presenting it to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu while visiting his childhood neighborhood of Phase 2.
Despite his success, Lookman insists he’s just getting started, dismissing any retirement talks. His stellar form has attracted interest from Premier League clubs including Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United, with Atalanta valuing their star at €50 million.
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised Lookman as an inspiration to Nigerian youth, calling him a symbol of Lagos’ rising spirit. For Lookman, his Nigerian identity continues to fuel his remarkable ascent in world football.
