The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Anthony Adeyinka Adeboye, has described Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman as a model of discipline, dedication, and humility, saying these qualities will continue to take the Nigerian star to even greater heights in his football career.
Adeboye’s remarks come on the back of Lookman’s high-profile transfer from Italian side Atalanta to Spanish giants Atlético Madrid, a move widely regarded as one of the most significant by a Nigerian player in recent years.
Reports indicate that the deal is valued at €35 million with potential add-ons rising to €40 million, while the forward is expected to earn around €7 million per season at his new club.
Reacting to the development, the SSA praised Lookman’s personal values and professionalism, noting that his success did not come by chance.
“Ademola Lookman is a player whose journey reflects discipline, dedication and hard work.
He listens, he learns, he remains humble, and these are the qualities that make him excel anywhere he goes,” Adeboye said.
He added that Lookman’s rise is a strong message to young Nigerian athletes that talent alone is not enough without character and consistency.
“His progress shows our youths that when you combine talent with discipline and dedication, the opportunities will always come. Ademola is a true example of what Nigerian footballers can achieve on the global stage,” he stated.
Adeboye further stressed that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, remains committed to strengthening grassroots sports development to produce more athletes capable of competing at elite levels worldwide.
As Lookman prepares for a new chapter in Spain, the SSA expressed confidence that the Super Eagles star will continue to make Nigeria proud through his performances, leadership, and professionalism.
“Greater heights still await him,” Adeboye concluded.
