President of the Confederation of African Football, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, has commended Nigeria for its increasing contribution to the development of football across the continent, saying the country remains crucial to the growth of the sport in Africa.
Motsepe made the remarks while meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and top Nigerian football stakeholders during the Africa Forward Summit.
During the discussion, the CAF president highlighted the need for sustained investment in Nigerian football, noting that the country’s success would have a positive impact on African football as a whole.
“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.
Motsepe also disclosed that CAF is considering Nigeria as host for a major yearly football gathering involving all 54 member associations on the continent.
“We are planning, Mr President, to have an annual meeting of the 54 nations in Nigeria,” he stated.
According to him, the proposed event would attract football federation presidents, administrators, and senior officials from across Africa.
The CAF president further revealed that Abuja and Lagos are both being considered as possible venues for the programme due to their strategic importance.
“Some people said it must be in Abuja because the Head of State has to be there and speak,” Motsepe explained.
He added that Lagos also remains a strong contender for hosting parts of the event.
“If we want it in Lagos, that is not a hard one,” he added.
The CAF General Assembly remains one of the continent’s most significant football governance meetings, bringing together member associations and senior football executives from across Africa.
In addition, the CAF Awards ceremony recognises outstanding players, coaches, clubs, and other key personalities who have contributed to the growth of African football.
