The celebrated Super Eagles forward,Ademola Lookman who won the CAF African Footballer of the Year award 2024, has said that switching his allegiance to Nigeria after representing England at youth level is one of the best choices of his career.

“Without doubt. It changed my career and my life. People know that. This is my home, this is my place, Nigeria.I am the son of the soil,” he said.

In an exclusive interview with ARISE News, the Atalanta star reflected on his remarkable rise to global recognition, his decision to represent Nigeria, and what it means to bring home one of football’s most prestigious honours.

He expressed immense pride in bringing the prestigious honour back to his hometown of Lagos and reaffirming his strong connection to Nigeria.

He described his career journey as one defined by hard work, self-belief, and a deep sense of national pride.

Lookman, whose stunning performance in the recent Europa League final has been hailed as one of the defining moments of African football in Europe, attributed his success to discipline and consistency.

“I think just self-belief and just working hard every day,” he said. “I think if you work hard every single day, you get the confidence and you grow in what you do. And you know that because you’re working hard every day and one day you reap the benefits.”

He added, “Every single day I continue to try and work hard to try and be better. Whether that’s on or off the field. I just keep on keeping in that way and that’s been helping me.”

When asked about receiving a major international CAF award for his recent exploits, Lookman expressed both humility and pride.

“It’s amazing. It’s a privilege to have this,” he said. “I take it with a real pride because I saw many great players and the likes of the big players in the world. This award, for me to be among them, is a blessing.”

The Super Eagles star also shared plans to celebrate the award with his community.

“I’m bringing it back home now to Lagos. I went to Phase 2, I spent a lot of time there as a kid. That’s where I’m bringing it back to Lagos today,” he said, beaming. “It’s a privilege to present it to the President.”

Despite the milestone achievements, Lookman made it clear that retirement is not on the horizon.

“Retiring now, I’m being content. It’s not in my mind, not even anywhere in my thoughts. It’s a long, long journey and there’s so much more to achieve,” he said. “For me, this is another part of my journey. It’s a long, long road.”

Boluwatife Enome

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