Ademola Lookman, one of the brightest stars in African football today, has opened up about the life-changing decision to switch his international allegiance from England to Nigeria — a move he now regards as one of the most defining choices of his professional career.
Born in Wandsworth, South London, to Nigerian parents, Lookman had the option to represent either the Three Lions of England or the Super Eagles of Nigeria. Initially, he played for England at youth level, representing the country in several junior competitions, including the U-20 World Cup in 2017, where he played a key role in helping England lift the trophy.
However, in 2022, the RB Leipzig forward — then on loan at Leicester City — made headlines when he opted to commit his international future to Nigeria. At the time, many fans and analysts saw it as a bold but strategic move. Now, speaking in a recent interview, Lookman has shed more light on how deeply personal and impactful the decision was for him.
“Switching allegiance to Nigeria was one of the most defining decisions of my career,” Lookman revealed. “It wasn’t just about football; it was about identity, purpose, and legacy.”
Embracing His Roots
Despite being raised in the UK, Lookman never lost touch with his Nigerian heritage. The culture, traditions, and values of his parents’ homeland played a strong role in shaping his worldview — and ultimately, his footballing path.
“My family has always kept me grounded in my Nigerian roots,” he said. “From the food we ate to the stories we shared growing up, I always felt a deep connection to Nigeria. So, when the opportunity came, it felt right — almost like destiny.”
His debut for the Super Eagles came during the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff against Ghana. Although Nigeria narrowly missed qualification for the tournament in Qatar, Lookman’s performances were widely praised. His pace, creativity, and attacking flair quickly earned him admiration from fans and pundits alike.
A Star at AFCON 2023
Lookman’s impact for Nigeria reached new heights during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s impressive run to the final, scoring three crucial goals in the knockout stages — including two match-winning goals against Cameroon and Angola.
While Nigeria ultimately fell short against the host nation in the final, Lookman’s performances were among the tournament’s highlights. He cemented his status as a key figure in the current Super Eagles setup and proved that his decision to play for Nigeria was not only emotional but also incredibly beneficial for his career.
From England Youth to Nigerian Hero
The transition from being an England youth international to a Nigerian senior team star has not been without its challenges. Critics questioned his decision at first, with some arguing he could have broken into the senior England team if he had waited. But for Lookman, the decision went beyond just caps and call-ups.
“There was a lot of noise,” he admitted. “But I knew in my heart that playing for Nigeria would give me something different. There’s a certain pride that comes with wearing the green and white jersey — it’s not just about me, it’s about representing millions of people and inspiring the next generation.”
Future Ambitions with the Super Eagles
Now a regular starter under head coach Finidi George, Lookman is focused on the future. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers underway and the 2025 AFCON on the horizon, he’s determined to help Nigeria reclaim its place as one of Africa’s dominant footballing nations.
“We have an incredibly talented team. With the right mindset and unity, I believe we can achieve great things. I want to win trophies with Nigeria — that’s the goal.”
Final Thoughts
Ademola Lookman’s story is not just one of football talent, but also of identity, pride, and belonging. His journey from the streets of London to the pitches of Africa is a testament to the power of embracing one’s roots. For Nigerian fans, his presence in the Super Eagles squad is more than just a boost in quality — it’s a symbol of a new era of commitment, passion, and purpose.
As Nigeria prepares for future tournaments, one thing is certain: with Ademola Lookman in the squad, the Super Eagles have a star who not only brings skill to the field but also heart to the badge.
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