Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed the state’s readiness to host the 2026 CAF Awards after officials from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) inspected the National Theatre in Lagos, the venue selected for the prestigious ceremony.
The inspection formed part of CAF’s assessment of Nigeria’s preparations for both its 48th Ordinary General Assembly and the annual CAF Awards. A five-member CAF delegation, led by the organisation’s Head of Safety and Security, Dr Christian Emeruwa, visited the National Theatre alongside officials from the Lagos State Sports Commission.
Other members of the CAF team included Mohammed Bakeer (Technology), Inas Ahmed (Travel and Accommodation), Salah Mostafa (Transport), and Hervé Dassoundo (Branding). They were welcomed by the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, and his team.
Speaking after the inspection, Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the event meets international standards.
“We took the delegation around the venue and listened carefully to their observations. Hosting an event of this magnitude requires attention to every detail, and our team is fully committed to delivering a world-class experience,” he said.
The governor added that Lagos is eager to once again showcase its ability to host major continental sporting events, expressing confidence that the city will provide a memorable celebration of African football.
Nigeria has hosted the CAF Awards four times, with the last edition taking place in Lagos in January 2015. This year’s CAF General Assembly is scheduled for November 21, 2026, in Abuja, while the CAF Awards ceremony will be held in Lagos, where Africa’s top football stars and other outstanding contributors to the game will be recognised.
Before arriving in Lagos, the CAF delegation visited Abuja to inspect facilities, including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, and the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, which will host activities related to the General Assembly.
The inspection team is also being accompanied by officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), including Director of Media and Communications Dr Ademola Olajire, Director of Marketing Alizor Chuks, Head of Security Barnabas Joro, Chief Protocol Officer Emmanuel Ayanbunmi, and Head of ICT Tasiu Riskuwa Shehu.
Nigeria secured the hosting rights for both events after President Bola Tinubu approved CAF’s request during the Africa Summit held in Nairobi, Kenya, two months ago.
Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded by expressing optimism that Lagos is fully prepared to welcome the continent, saying the state looks forward to delivering an unforgettable CAF Awards ceremony.
