The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has assured the Confederation of African Football (CAF) of the state’s preparedness to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Hamzat gave the assurance on Wednesday while receiving on behalf of the State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the CAF Inspection Team who were on a courtesy visit at the Round House, Alausa, Ikeja.
The Deputy Governor said that the state has all it takes as one of the centers in successfully hosting a great sport event like the AFCON. He cited the state’s experience in hosting major sporting events, such as the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2009 and the All Africa Games in 2020, as evidence of its readiness to host the AFCON.
Hamzat also highlighted the state’s investment in sports infrastructure, which he said will be further enhanced in preparation for the AFCON. He said that the state government is committed to providing world-class facilities for athletes and fans alike.
“Lagos State had in the past hosted the under 17 and under 20 World Cup football competitions and this has given us an insight into the protocols of hosting.
Dr O. Hazmat to CAF inspection team
“We have the template, and we know what is expected of us, so we will make sure that it is good.”
The CAF Inspection Team was led by Mallam Mainasara Illo. The team was impressed with the state’s preparations and expressed confidence that Lagos will be a great host for the AFCON in 2027.
The 2027 AFCON will be jointly hosted by Nigeria and Benin, if they win the bid. The tournament is expected to be the biggest and most prestigious in the history of the competition.
