The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to successfully hosting the 48th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Abuja and the 2026 CAF Awards in Lagos.
Dikko gave the assurance during a visit by a CAF delegation inspecting facilities in Abuja ahead of the congress, after the inspections and engagements with relevant agencies, institutions and stakeholders in Lagos.
He said the events would provide an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s organisational capacity and strengthen its role in African football.
Dikko noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved the hosting initiative after discussions with CAF leadership on the sidelines of the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya five months ago.
“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the government of our country are very, very committed to hosting bespoke events that will underscore the capacity of our people in organisation and management of high-profile events. We will work together as one team to make sure this is delivered to the best that it could be,” Dikko said.
He also acknowledged the support of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in facilitating preparations for the General Assembly in Abuja.
READ MORE: CAF Delegation to Inspect Nigeria’s Awards, Assembly Venues
Nigeria To Host CAF Awards, CAF General Assembly
The NSC chairman explained that the two cities would play complementary roles, with the Abuja hosting the General Assembly and Lagos staging the CAF Awards.
He described Lagos as Nigeria’s commercial hub, highlighting its experience in hosting major international sporting and cultural events.
Dikko added that the NSC is working with relevant government agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, to facilitate the movement of international delegates, minimise delays and ensure smooth entry and exit procedures.
He also highlighted plans to mobilise investment through a proposed Sports Infrastructure Development Bond to support the upgrading of sports facilities nationwide.
Dikko expressed confidence that collaboration among the Federal Government, NSC, Lagos State Government, FCT Administration, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and CAF would ensure the successful delivery of both events.
He said the initiative would strengthen Nigeria’s position in international sports administration and demonstrate its commitment to the development of African football.
Earlier, the Acting General Secretary of the NFF, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, assured the CAF delegation of the federation’s readiness to provide personnel and work closely with the continental body to deliver a successful General Assembly and a memorable CAF Awards ceremony.
