Sunday Oliseh celebrates Ademola Lookman’s Ballon D’or nomination

By Wale Mustapha

Former captain of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Sunday Oliseh, has praised Ademola Lookman’s nomination for the prestigious Ballon d’Or, describing it as a significant boost for Nigerian football.

Lookman, whose stellar performances for both club and country have earned him this recognition, was announced as a nominee for this year’s award on Wednesday.

Lookman’s contributions were pivotal in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph, where they secured a 3-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the final.

His nomination marks him as the seventh Nigerian to be recognized for the highest individual accolade in world football, joining an esteemed list that includes George Finidi, Daniel Amokachi, Austin Okocha, Kanu Nwankwo, Victor Ikpeba, Sunday Oliseh himself, and Victor Osimhen.

Oliseh welcomed Lookman to this exclusive circle of Nigerian football stars with enthusiasm.

“Congratulations to Ademola Lookman for joining this exclusive list of Nigerians who were worldwide acclaimed! Naija’s all-time magnificent 7 just became THE MAGNIFICENT 8. Delighted and welcome to the Club Lil bro,” Oliseh posted on his X handle.

The winner of the Ballon d’Or will be announced at a gala event later in the year, where Lookman will compete with some of the world’s best players for the coveted award.