Nigeria Urged By CAF President Patrice Motsepe To Bid For FIFA World Cup In 2024.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Patrice Motsepe, encouraged Nigeria to submit a bid to host the FIFA World Cup during a press conference at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire on 10 February 2024. Expressing confidence in Nigeria’s potential, Motsepe highlighted the country’s suitability to host the global tournament, urging its leadership to pursue the opportunity.
The call underscored Nigeria’s rich football heritage and its prior success in hosting international tournaments, such as the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2009. Motsepe praised the vibrant football culture in Lagos, describing it as a city of “endless possibilities” and a key destination in Africa. His encouragement reflected CAF’s broader ambition for another African nation to host the World Cup, following South Africa’s landmark achievement in 2010, the only time the continent has done so.
Nigeria boasts notable football infrastructure, including the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja and the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, which could support a credible bid. The nation’s passionate fanbase and the global appeal of its football stars further strengthen its case. With hosting rights for 2026, 2030, and 2034 already allocated, Nigeria could target the 2038 tournament as its next opportunity.
The suggestion sparked enthusiasm among Nigerians, with many expressing pride on social media about the prospect of showcasing the country’s sporting and cultural vibrancy. However, significant challenges remain, including the need to upgrade infrastructure to meet FIFA’s rigorous standards. With the Naira valued at approximately ₦2070.27 to £1 as of July 2025, funding could pose a hurdle, though the economic benefits—evidenced by South Africa’s £3 billion windfall in 2010—present a compelling incentive.
Motsepe, re-elected unopposed as CAF president in March 2025, has consistently championed the growth of African football. His 2024 appeal for Nigeria to bid underscores his vision of enhancing the continent’s global football presence. While no formal bid has been confirmed, the encouragement continues to fuel discussions about Nigeria’s potential to host the world’s most prestigious football tournament.
