President of the Confederation of African Football, Patrice Motsepe, has disclosed that he personally insisted on Lagos hosting a major CAF programme, even after suggestions that Abuja would be more suitable due to the expected presence of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Nigeria is preparing to stage the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly as well as the CAF Awards, following approval of its bid by President Tinubu during discussions with CAF officials in Nairobi, Kenya.
The CAF President praised Nigeria’s growing influence in African football, stressing that the country’s continued development is crucial to the progress of the entire continent.
He made the remarks during a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerian football officials at the Africa Forward Summit.
Speaking during the engagement, Motsepe emphasised the importance of sustained investment in Nigerian football development.
“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
CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe and Nigeria’s Head of State, His Excellency Bola Tinubu met today on the sidelines of the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya and discussed a number of matters including the corporation between Government, Football and the Private Sector.
Motsepe also outlined CAF’s plans to introduce an annual gathering of all 54 member associations in Nigeria, describing it as part of broader efforts to strengthen football administration across the continent.
“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 to deliberate on the development and governance of the game.
The CAF Ordinary General Assembly remains one of the most significant administrative meetings in African football, bringing together member associations to discuss governance and policy direction.
The CAF Awards, meanwhile, celebrate the continent’s best players, coaches, clubs and national teams.
On the question of venue selection, Motsepe noted the differing views between Abuja and Lagos, while stressing flexibility in CAF’s planning.
“Some people said it must be in Abuja because the Head of State has to be there and speak,” Motsepe explained.
The CAF president, however, maintained that he preferred Lagos for the event.
“But I said sorry, I want it in Lagos,” he added.
He also acknowledged Lagos as a strong alternative for hosting parts of the programme.
Responding humorously during the conversation, President Tinubu said, “Even if you want it in Lagos, anything can happen.”
Nigeria has already secured hosting rights for the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly scheduled for October 2026, alongside the CAF Awards ceremony.
