President Bola Tinubu has approved Nigeria's proposed bid to host the 2026 CAF Awards ceremony and endorsed the country's proposal to host CAF's 48th Ordinary General Assembly later this year. Tinubu announced the approvals at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, following a meeting with CAF president Patrice Motsepe. The CAF General Assembly is scheduled for October 2026. Nigeria last hosted the award gala on January 6, 2017, when Riyad Mahrez and Asisat Oshoala won the top prizes.
Key Points:
- Hosting the CAF Awards would boost Nigeria's profile in African football administration.
- The October General Assembly will bring 54 member associations to Nigeria, driving tourism and diplomacy.
- Tinubu personally lobbying Motsepe signals presidential priority for sports diplomacy.
- Nigeria's hosting again after nearly a decade reflects renewed continental standing.
- Success could strengthen the NFF's case for hosting future AFCON tournaments.
Sources: The Cable, NFF
