Nigeria to host 2026 CAF Awards

In a significant development for African football, Nigeria has officially been granted the hosting rights for the prestigious 2026 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards and the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly. This decision, a testament to Nigeria's standing in continental football, was formally approved by President Bola Tinubu after crucial discussions with CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe during the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya.

The hosting of these high-profile events underscores Nigeria's commitment to advancing the sport across the continent. The CAF Awards ceremony is the pinnacle of African football, recognizing and celebrating the continent's outstanding players, coaches, and teams. Simultaneously, the Ordinary General Assembly serves as a vital forum for top football administrators from CAF's 54 member associations to convene, discuss strategies, and shape the future of football in Africa.

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The President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, has approved Nigeria’s proposed hosting of the 48th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football, as well as this year’s CAF Awards Ceremony.

The NFF's statement confirmed that the General Assembly is slated for October this year, bringing together key figures in African football governance. This event, alongside the glitz and glamour of the CAF Awards, promises to be a significant occasion for Nigeria, showcasing its capacity to host international sporting events of this magnitude. The nation's football federation, led by Ibrahim Gusau, alongside other dignitaries including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and special adviser to the CAF president Amaju Pinnick, were present during the pivotal meeting.

Nigeria's history with hosting the CAF Awards, including the most recent edition in Lagos in January 2015, provides a strong foundation for this new undertaking. The country's passion for football and its established infrastructure make it an ideal host. This opportunity not only highlights Nigeria's influence in African football but also presents a chance to further foster camaraderie and development within the sport across the continent.

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The 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly will take place in October this year.