Former NFF President Amaju Pinnick detailed his efforts to persuade Ademola Lookman to join the Super Eagles. Pinnick’s persistence, including meeting Lookman’s father, paid off as Lookman flourished, winning the CAF Player of the Year award.
Former Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) President Amaju Pinnick has disclosed the extensive efforts he made to persuade Ademola Lookman to represent the Super Eagles. Lookman, who previously played for England at youth levels, officially switched allegiance to Nigeria, a move that has now paid off with remarkable success.
During his tenure from 2014 to 2022, Pinnick was instrumental in recruiting several diaspora players of Nigerian origin. This list includes stars like Alex Iwobi, Leon Balogun, Ola Aina, and William Troost-Ekong, who have all significantly bolstered the Super Eagles squad.
Speaking after the 2024 CAF Awards, where Lookman was crowned CAF Player of the Year, Pinnick reflected on the challenges he faced to secure the player's commitment. He recalled a pivotal moment when he met Lookman’s father at the Ikoyi Club to finalize the process.
“I recall rushing to meet his father to ensure all necessary documentation was completed. It was a demanding process, but seeing him excel now makes it all worthwhile,” Pinnick shared. He expressed pride in Lookman’s accomplishments and called it a turning point for the player’s career.
Lookman, currently shining at Atalanta in Serie A, became the sixth Nigerian to win the CAF Player of the Year award.
