Lookman Oust Osimhen as ‘King of the Pitch’

Ademola Lookman, the star forward for the Super Eagles and Atalanta BC, has added another prestigious accolade to his growing list of achievements, as he was crowned ‘King of the Pitch’ at the 2024/2025 Nigeria Pitch Awards held in Uyo.

The ceremony, which took place after the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualifier match against the Warriors of Zimbabwe, saw Lookman also named Striker of the Year for his stellar performances.

The event was held at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, and brought together top football figures and enthusiasts to celebrate the best in Nigerian football.

Lookman’s recognition as ‘King of the Pitch’ comes after a remarkable year for the 25-year-old, who has been a standout performer for both his club and country.

He continues to build on his success after being named the African Footballer of the Year.

The award ceremony also saw Rasheedat Ajibade, forward for Atlético de Madrid Femenino and the Super Falcons, crowned as the ‘Queen of the Pitch,’ solidifying her position as one of Nigeria’s top female footballers.

Shina Philips, President of the Nigeria Pitch Awards, reaffirmed the organisers’ commitment to promoting excellence in Nigerian football despite the challenges they face.

He urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Super Eagles and other national teams, stressing the importance of sustaining the momentum of the awards.

Other notable winners at the 11th edition of the Nigeria Pitch Awards include:

• Goalkeeper of the Year: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United)

• Defender of the Year: William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood FC)

• Midfielder of the Year: Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC)

• Coach of the Year: Fidelis Ilechukwu (Rangers International FC)

• Team of the Year: Rangers International FC

• Sam Okwaraji Award: Kunle Soname (Bet9ja)

• Corporate Sponsor of Football Award: MTN Nigeria

• Football Journalist of the Year – Print: Charles Diya (New Telegraph Newspapers)

• Football Journalist of the Year – TV: Cecilia Omorogbe (Channels TV)

• Football Journalist of the Year – Radio: Tony Bekederemo (Brila Sports Radio)

• Football Journalist of the Year – Online: Samuel Ahmadu (Savid News)

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In addition to individual recognitions, other accolades included Lagos State for the Best Grassroots Football Development Programme, and His Excellency Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, who was named the Football Friendly Governor of the Year.

The 2024/2025 Nigeria Pitch Awards once again highlighted the outstanding contributions of players, coaches, and media professionals to the development of football in Nigeria, while further reinforcing the importance of supporting the nation’s footballing ecosystem.

Full List of Winners:

• Goalkeeper of the Year: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United)

• Defender of the Year: William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood FC)

• Midfielder of the Year: Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC)

• Striker of the Year: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta BC)

• Team of the Year: Rangers International FC

• Coach of the Year: Fidelis Ilechukwu (Rangers International FC)

• Sam Okwaraji Award: Kunle Soname (Bet9ja)

• State with the Best Grassroots Football Development Programme: Lagos State

• Football Pitch of the Year: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium

• Football Friendly Governor of the Year: His Excellency, Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom State)

• Corporate Sponsor of Football Award: MTN Nigeria

• Sportsmanship Award: Kunle Soname (Chairman, Remo Stars)

• Football Journalist of the Year – Print: Charles Diya (New Telegraph Newspapers)

• Football Journalist of the Year – TV: Cecilia Omorogbe (Channels TV)

• Football Journalist of the Year – Radio: Anthony Bekederemo (Brila 88.9 FM)

• Football Journalist of the Year – Online: Samuel Ahmadu (Savid News)

• Queen of the Pitch: Rasheedat Ajibade (Atlético de Madrid Femenino)

• King of the Pitch: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta BC)