Atalanta and Nigeria star Lookman joins Africa’s richest man in 100 Most Influential Africans of 2024

The London-based New African magazine has unveiled its much-anticipated annual list of the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2024, spotlighting exceptional individuals who have made a significant impact on the continent and beyond over the past year, Soccernet.football reports.

Among this year’s honorees is Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, who joins an illustrious cohort that includes Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote, Oando Plc Group CEO Wale Tinubu, banking magnate Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, and the genre-defining singer Ayra Starr.

Lookman’s inclusion comes after an unforgettable year that saw him crowned African Player of the Year on December 16.

Draped in traditional Nigerian attire at the awards ceremony, the Wandsworth-born striker was celebrated for his exceptional performances both domestically and internationally.

Having moved to Atalanta in 2022, Lookman’s career has flourished in Italy, where he has become a prolific goalscorer—a stark contrast to his earlier stints in England and Germany.

Despite a fondly remembered spell at Everton, he only netted once in 36 Premier League appearances. His switch to Serie A marked a turning point.

In the 2023/24 campaign, Lookman bagged 11 goals in 31 league appearances, helping Atalanta secure a top-four finish.

However, it was his heroics in the Europa League that truly stole the headlines. In the final against Bayer Leverkusen, an unbeaten force throughout the season, Lookman delivered a stunning hat-trick to secure Atalanta’s first major trophy in 61 years.

This season, his burgeoning partnership with Mateo Retegui has placed Atalanta in contention for their maiden Serie A title, with both forwards vying for the league’s Golden Boot.

On the international stage, Lookman’s contributions to Nigeria were equally commendable. The forward scored six goals in 2024, including three at the Africa Cup of Nations, where the Super Eagles finished as runners-up.

With his blend of resilience, flair, and unrelenting work ethic, Ademola Lookman has become a beacon of inspiration—a worthy addition to the 2024 list of Africa’s most influential personalities.