Dikko reiterates Nigeria’s determination to deliver successful CAF events

National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has reiterated 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 ceremony in Lagos.

Dikko gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by a CAF delegation inspecting facilities in Abuja ahead of the General Assembly.

Before their Abuja visit, the delegation had earlier visited Lagos, where it assessed facilities and engaged relevant government agencies, institutions and stakeholders. He described both events as strategic opportunities to showcase Nigeria’s organisational capacity and strengthen the country’s role in African football administration.

“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 Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, in preparations for the General Assembly, in Abuja.

Abuja and Lagos will play complimentary roles as hosts of the General Assembly and CAF Awards.

Dikko highlighted Lagos’ status as Nigeria’s commercial hub and its experience in staging major international sporting and cultural events.

He added that the NSC was collaborating with relevant government agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, to streamline entry and exit procedures, minimise delays and ensure a smooth experience for international delegates.

Dikko further pointed to ongoing investment in Nigeria’s sports infrastructure, saying the country was working towards strengthening its capacity to host major international competitions. He reiterated plans to mobilise an initial proposed investment through a Sports Infrastructure Development Bond to support the upgrading of sporting facilities nationwide.

He expressed confidence that cooperation among the Federal Government, the NSC, Lagos State Government, FCT administration, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and CAF would ensure the successful delivery of both events.

Earlier, NFF Acting General Secretary, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, who received the CAF delegation at the federation’s office assured the continental governing body that the NFF would deploy its personnel and work closely with CAF to deliver a successful General Assembly and a memorable awards ceremony.