Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has promised the state government’s complete backing for the 2026 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards, set for December 7 in Lagos. The governor made this commitment while meeting a visiting delegation led by Dr. Christian Emeruwa, the project lead for the CAF Awards and General Assembly, at Lagos House in Marina on Sunday. According to a statement released by the governor’s media adviser, Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu confirmed that critical operational elements, such as security, logistics, branding, and venue access, would receive dedicated attention to ensure a smooth event.
Premium Times reported that Sanwo-Olu also highlighted the state’s ability to host international engagements, describing Lagos as a major commercial, cultural, and technological hub in Africa. The governor stated that the event would serve as an opportunity to showcase the state’s hospitality and economic significance to visitors from across the continent and beyond. In a social media post, he emphasized the commitment to making the experience memorable for football stakeholders and international guests.
The delegation’s visit is part of a broader inspection mission to assess preparations for both the awards ceremony and the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly, scheduled for November 21 in Abuja. Premium Times noted that a 15-member CAF team is on the ground to evaluate facilities, including the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts and Eko Hotel & Suites in Lagos. In Abuja, the inspection covers the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. A six-member team from the Nigeria Football Federation is also accompanying the delegation to facilitate coordination.
Dr. Emeruwa described the CAF Awards as a major annual non-competitive event that recognizes outstanding players, officials, and national teams. He requested assistance from the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency to manage publicity and branding across the state. Additionally, he proposed that the state government lead security operations in coordination with CAF’s own security team. This inspection follows an earlier visit by CAF officials in July and August, during which representatives discussed initial coordination and logistical arrangements for the upcoming continental events.