We want Lagos - CAF president unveils plans for 2026 CAF Awards

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Dr. Patrice Motsepe has praised Nigeria for its growing influence in African football, describing the country’s football development as vital to the progress of the entire continent.

CAF president made the remarks during a meeting with Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerian football officials at the Africa Forward Summit.

Speaking during the engagement, Motsepe stressed the importance of investing in Nigerian football.

“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 revealed CAF’s intention to host a major annual football gathering involving all 54 member nations in Nigeria.

“We are planning, Mr President, to have an annual meeting of the 54 nations in Nigeria,” he stated.

The proposed event is expected to bring together football administrators, federation presidents, and senior officials from across Africa.

The CAF president further discussed possible locations for the events, explaining that both Abuja and Lagos are central to the planning process.

“Some people said it must be in Abuja because the Head of State has to be there and speak,” Motsepe explained.

He also acknowledged Lagos as a strong option for hosting parts of the programme.

“If we want it in Lagos, that is not a hard one,” he added.

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 one of the most important meetings in African football governance, involving all CAF member associations and top continental football executives.

Meanwhile, the CAF Awards ceremony celebrates the continent’s best players, coaches, clubs, and football personalities.