Patrice Motsepe Eyes Lagos and Abuja as CAF Plans 2026 General Assembly and Awards Ceremony in Nigeria

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has set its sights on Nigeria as the host nation for two of its most significant 2026 events, with President Dr. Patrice Motsepe confirming plans during a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya on May 12, 2026.

Motsepe met with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerian football officials at the summit, where discussions covered cooperation between government, football, and the private sector. According to CAF Media, the two leaders discussed a range of matters relating to the growth of football on the continent.

Central to those discussions was Nigeria’s expanding role in African football. Motsepe described investment in Nigerian football as inseparable from the broader development of the game across Africa. “It’s one of the best things we can do for African football and, of course, Nigerian football. Because if Nigerian football succeeds in growth, all of us grow and succeed through that growth. It is our investment,” he said.

Motsepe also announced plans for an annual continental football gathering to be held in Nigeria, bringing together representatives from all 54 CAF member associations. “We are planning, Mr President, to have an annual meeting of the 54 nations in Nigeria,” he stated. The proposed gathering is expected to include federation presidents, football administrators, and senior officials from across the continent.

On the question of venue, Motsepe acknowledged that both Abuja and Lagos are being considered. “Some people said it must be in Abuja because the Head of State has to be there and speak,” he explained, before adding that Lagos remained a strong and viable option. “If we want it in Lagos, that is not a hard one,” he said. A widely circulated clip further captured Motsepe indicating a personal preference for Lagos, to which President Tinubu responded that logistical arrangements could be made regardless of location.

Nigeria has already secured the rights to host the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly in October 2026, alongside the prestigious CAF Awards ceremony. The General Assembly is a cornerstone of African football governance, convening all member associations and continental football executives to deliberate on regulatory, financial, and strategic matters affecting the game across Africa.

The CAF Awards, held annually, recognise outstanding achievement across the continent’s football landscape, honouring the best players, coaches, clubs, and football personalities of the year. Past editions have been held in cities including Rabat, Marrakech, and Arusha.

Nigeria’s hosting of these events marks a significant moment for the country’s football administration. The Super Eagles have remained one of Africa’s most prominent national teams, while the Super Falcons continue to be a dominant force in women’s football on the continent. Nigeria’s growing footprint in continental football governance reflects both its sporting stature and its increasing diplomatic engagement within CAF structures.

The confirmation comes amid broader activity involving Nigeria and CAF, including the previously reported postponement of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which drew criticism from Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. The 2026 CAF Awards and General Assembly in Nigeria are expected to serve as a platform to further solidify the country’s relationship with the continental governing body.