Lookman, Ajibade Shine at 11th Nigeria Pitch Awards

Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman and Atlético Madrid Femenino star Rasheedat Ajibade stole the spotlight at the 11th Nigeria Pitch Awards, held at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. 

Lookman clinched two major awards— Striker of the Year and King of the Pitch —while Ajibade was crowned Queen of the Pitch, celebrating their stellar performances for both club and country. 

The ceremony, held shortly after the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe, brought together football stars, administrators, and dignitaries to honor Nigeria’s finest talents. 

Lookman and Ajibade: Nigeria’s Football Standouts

Lookman, a key figure for Atalanta and the Super Eagles, has been in sensational form, delivering crucial goals and assists. His consistency earned him double recognition at the prestigious event. 

Ajibade, a driving force for the Super Falcons, continues to impress with her speed, skill, and leadership. Her contributions have been vital in Nigeria’s recent successes, cementing her status as one of the nation’s top female footballers. 

Other Major Winners
-Goalkeeper of the Year: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United) 
– Defender of the Year: William Troost-Ekong (Super Eagles) – his fourth win 
– Midfielder of the Year: Alex Iwobi (Fulham) 
– Sam Okwaraji Award: Kunle Soname (for commitment to Nigerian football) 
– Coach of the Year: Fidelis Ilechukwu (Rangers International) 
– Team of the Year: Rangers International 
– Corporate Sponsor of Football: MTN 

Honoring Football Media
The awards also recognized outstanding sports journalists: 
– Online: Samuel Ahmadu (Savid News) 
– Print: Charles Diya (New Telegraph) 
– TV: Cecilia Omorogbe (Channels TV) 
– Radio: Tony Bekederemo (Brila Sports Radio) 

The Nigeria Pitch Awards, known for their credibility, continue to celebrate excellence in Nigerian football, honoring players, coaches, and contributors to the sport’s growth.

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 Intl FC

Sam Okwaraji Award

Hon. Kunle Soname – Bet9ja

State With the Best Grassroots Football Development Programme

Lagos State

Football Pitch of the Year

Godswill Akpabio Int’l Stadium

Football Friendly Governor of the Year

His Excellency, Umo Eno – Akwa Ibom State

Corporate Sponsor of Football Award

MTN Nigeria

Sportsmanship Award

Hon. 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

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