Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has described his decision to switch international allegiance from England to Nigeria as one of the most defining moments of his football career.
The 2024 CAF African Footballer of the Year said choosing to represent Nigeria had a transformative impact on both his life and career.
“Without a doubt, it changed my career and my life,” Lookman shared in an interview with ARISE TV.
“People know that. This is my home. This is my place. I enjoy it here. I am the son of the soil.”
Born in London, Lookman represented England at youth level before committing his international future to Nigeria. Since making that choice, his career has soared—highlighted by a stunning hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, which led Atalanta to their first-ever European title.
Now widely regarded as one of the most in-form attackers in Europe, the 27-year-old attributed his rise to unwavering discipline, consistency, and self-belief.
“It’s about working hard every single day. When you do that, your confidence grows, and eventually your efforts pay off,” he said.
That mentality, Lookman added, helped him push through challenging periods in his career—such as the time he missed a crucial penalty while on loan at Fulham.
“Every day, I try to improve myself—both on and off the pitch. That consistency and mindset have really helped me,” he said.
Winning the African Footballer of the Year award, he explained, was a moment of deep personal pride.
“It’s amazing. Honestly, I won’t lie to you—it’s a privilege,” Lookman said.
“I take it with real pride. I’ve seen the great players who have received this award—some of the biggest names in football. To be among them is a blessing.”
During a recent visit to Nigeria, Lookman returned to Lagos to present the CAF award to President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu—a gesture he described as deeply meaningful.
Sanwo-Olu praised Lookman as a symbol of the “Greater Lagos Rising” spirit and an inspiration to millions of young Nigerians.
Lookman also visited Phase 2, a community where he spent much of his childhood with his grandmother and father.
“It was really important for me to bring this award back home. I’ve been cradling it all day. Bringing it back to Lagos means everything,” he said.
“And today, I had the honour of presenting it to the President. That meant a lot.”
When asked whether he would feel fulfilled if he retired today, Lookman didn’t hesitate.
“Definitely not. Retirement is nowhere in my thoughts. Not even close,” he said.
“There’s still a long journey ahead. So much more to achieve. This is just another chapter. The road is still long.”
Lookman’s red-hot form has drawn interest from several Premier League giants, with Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United all reportedly preparing bids.
Atalanta have valued him at €50 million, making him one of the most sought-after forwards in European football.
