The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed Nigeria as the host of the inaugural African Nations League in 2029, a landmark decision aimed at expanding competitive football across the continent.
The announcement was made on Saturday, January 17, during a press conference at the Moulay Abdellah Complex in Rabat.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe detailed the tournament format, revealing that the competition will begin with 16 West African nations competing in the opening phase.
The winners from the regional stages will then advance to the final phase, bringing together the top sides from across Africa.
“Nigeria has the infrastructure, passion, and history to host this new competition successfully,” Motsepe said, highlighting the country’s long-standing football tradition.
Scheduled to take place annually, the African Nations League is designed to complement the Africa Cup of Nations, which will move to a four-year cycle starting in 2028.
This new tournament aims to provide more competitive opportunities for national teams and to strengthen football development across all CAF regions.
Nigeria’s selection is also symbolic, reflecting the country’s deep ties to African football history.
The Super Eagles have previously hosted AFCON three times: in 1980, 2000 (jointly with Ghana), and 2013 in South Africa.
Nigeria won the 1980 edition and has consistently been one of the continent’s leading football nations.
Motsepe emphasised that the African Nations League will serve as a platform for showcasing talent from all corners of the continent.
“This competition is about giving more players the opportunity to compete at a high level and to celebrate the spirit of African football,” he said.
Preparations for the tournament are expected to focus on ensuring stadium readiness, accommodation, and logistics to accommodate teams, officials, and fans.
With Nigeria as the host, CAF hopes to create a showcase event that highlights both the country’s footballing infrastructure and the enthusiasm of its supporters.
As the continent looks forward to a more structured competitive calendar, the African Nations League promises to add a new dimension to African football, offering more exposure for emerging talent and providing fans with additional high-level international fixtures each year.
