Author: Timothy Dehinbo
When Ademola Lookman joined the Super Eagles after his nationality switch was completed in 2022, not many would have predicted the extraordinary journey that awaited him. Now, with the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year award firmly in his grasp, the Nigerian forward’s rise to the top of the pinnacle of African Football serves as a testament to his resilience, commitment, and relentless pursuit of excellence. But behind Lookman’s ascent to the pinnacle of African football stands one man who saw the spark in him from the very beginning: Super Eagles interim head coach Austin Eguavoen. Eguavoen was the…
In the bustling streets of Cairo, where the clamor of honking cars is drowned out by the chants of devoted Al Ahly fans, the beacon of hope of this being their year lingers. Thousands of miles away, in Pretoria, Lucas Ribeiro’s name echoes through Loftus Versfeld Stadium, where Mamelodi Sundowns supporters hold their breath every time the Brazilian forward touches the ball. From the alleys of Tunis to the cafes of Casablanca, the same dream unites millions of fans across Africa: the dream of seeing their club conquer the world. The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup offers a stage unlike…
For many young athletes, the dream of a professional sports career often means sacrificing other ambitions most of the time. The hours of practice, relentless travel schedules, and the emotional toll of competition make it hard to imagine juggling anything else. Yet, Paulinus Okon, a footballer for Akwa United, defied the odds. Not only did he excel on the pitch, but he also graduated with first-class honors—a feat never achieved in that department. His story isn’t just inspiring; it reshapes how we see African athletes and the possibilities they have beyond the game. The is the inside story of how…
In a world where footballers are often defined solely by their on-field accomplishments, Paulinus Okon of Akwa United is breaking the mold. The Nigerian Premier League (NPFL) attacking midfielder not only dazzles with his talent on the field but has also made history off it—graduating with a First Class Honours degree in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering from the University of Uyo. Okon’s story is a remarkable reminder that excellence in football and academia can go hand in hand. Earlier today, the club proudly announced that the player has graduated with a first-class honors degree—a historic achievement for the club. This…
Edo Queens’ dramatic victory over Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies in the ongoing CAF Women’s Champions League represents not only a major milestone for the team but also a landmark achievement for Nigerian football. Moses Aduku’s team were on the verge of getting disqualified as they had trailed till the 95th minute, before Emem Essien got an equalizer to level 1-1 in 90+5. That equalizer had sealed qualification already, but they pushed for more and got a winner in 90+11 courtesy Mary Mamudu. That win, most especially in the manner in which it happened was one of the most remarkable upsets in…
Ademola Lookman’s journey from South London to the heights of European football is a story of determination and belief. It’s more than just about football—it’s about defying the odds and refusing to let his background determine his future. In 2024, Ademola Lookman is enjoying a career-defining year, earning recognition as one of Europe’s rising stars and playing a key role for the Super Eagles of Nigeria. From South London to European Glory Ademola Lookman’s rise from the streets of Wandsworth, London, to the heights of European football is a story built on hard work and determination. Growing up, football was…
Today marks the start of something special. Afrikaanspective is here—not just as another media brand, but as a space for African stories told the way they should be: authentically, unapologetically, and with pride. We’re not just here to cover what’s happening across Africa; we’re here to explore why it matters, from a perspective that’s often overlooked. Welcome to Afrikaanspective—where every story is an invitation to see Africa through our eyes. So, come along with me for a quick journey. I’m Timothy Dehinbo, co-founder of Afrikaanspective. When Balogun Damilola[Founder] and I first came up with this idea, it wasn’t just about…