Sanwo-Olu Assures CAF of Lagos’ Readiness to Host 2026 Awards

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has pledged the state government’s full support for the successful hosting of the 2026 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards, scheduled to take place in Lagos on December 7.

The governor gave the assurance while receiving a CAF delegation led by the Project Lead for the CAF Awards and CAF General Assembly, Dr Christian Emeruwa, during a courtesy visit to Lagos House, Marina, on Sunday.

Sanwo-Olu said the state would give priority to key arrangements, including security, logistics, venue access, branding and other preparations needed to ensure a smooth event.

He described Lagos as one of Africa’s leading commercial, cultural, entertainment and technology centres, noting that its diversity, youthful population and economic importance made it suitable for hosting major international gatherings.

The governor added that the state was committed to giving CAF officials, football stakeholders and visitors from across the world a positive experience while showcasing Lagos’ hospitality and organisational capacity.

Speaking during the visit, Emeruwa said the delegation was in Nigeria for a five-day mission to inspect proposed venues and assess preparations for the CAF Awards in Lagos and the CAF General Assembly in Abuja.

He described the CAF Awards as one of the continent’s major annual football events, recognising outstanding players, officials and national teams for their achievements during the year under review.

According to him, the December ceremony is expected to attract leading figures in African and international football, including representatives of the world football governing body, FIFA, alongside other international guests.

Emeruwa also sought the support of the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) to facilitate publicity and branding across the state ahead of the ceremony.

He further requested that the Lagos State Government take the lead in coordinating security operations in collaboration with CAF’s security team.

The planned ceremony is expected to bring together some of the biggest names in African football, placing Lagos in the international spotlight as preparations continue for the December 7 event.