Lagos Declared Ready to Host 2026 CAF Awards After National Theatre Inspection
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed confidence that the city is prepared to host the 2026 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards, following a formal inspection of the National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos. Speaking under the slogan “Lagos Is Ready,” the governor signalled the state government’s intent to put its full weight behind the bid to stage the continental ceremony.
According to AllAfrica, an inspection team was received at the National Theatre on Monday by representatives of the Lagos State Sports Commission, led by Director-General Lekan Fatodu. The officials conducted a comprehensive assessment of the venue and its facilities to determine whether the complex meets the requirements for hosting Africa’s premier football awards night.
A landmark venue
The National Theatre, located in the Iganmu area of Lagos, is one of Nigeria’s most prominent cultural landmarks. Originally constructed for the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC ’77), the sprawling complex has long served as a centre for performances, conferences and large-scale events in West Africa’s largest city. Bringing the CAF Awards to the venue would place it once again on a major international stage.
About the CAF Awards
The CAF Awards are the continental football governing body’s annual celebration of excellence across African football, recognising outstanding players, coaches, clubs and national teams from across the continent. Lagos has previously hosted major sporting and entertainment gatherings, and staging the awards would add to the city’s growing profile as a destination for international events.
With the inspection now complete and the governor’s public endorsement in place, attention turns to the Lagos State Sports Commission and its coordination of on-the-ground preparations as the host city awaits confirmation.
Sources
This report was written from coverage published by the following news organisations. Follow the links for the original reporting.
