Motsepe Urges Nigeria to Bid for FIFA World Cup: ‘The Capacity Is There’

• CAF President Patrice Motsepe has urged Nigeria to bid for the FIFA World Cup, saying the country has the infrastructure and football passion to host the global event
• Motsepe’s call comes as Nigeria eyes a potential bid for the 2038 tournament, building on its experience hosting the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2009
• Under Motsepe’s leadership, CAF has implemented major reforms, including launching the African Football League and increasing prize money for continental competitions

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has urged Nigeria to consider bidding to host the FIFA World Cup, expressing strong belief in the country’s capacity to stage an event of such magnitude.

Motsepe made the call during a recent engagement, highlighting Nigeria’s footballing pedigree and infrastructure as key strengths. His statement comes in the wake of South Africa's historic hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the first on African soil.

Nigeria previously hosted the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2009 and boasts notable infrastructure such as the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja and the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. The nation’s passionate fanbase and globally recognised football stars further bolster its credibility as a potential host.

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If Nigerian football authorities respond to Motsepe’s appeal, a bid for the 2038 edition would be the most realistic option, as the upcoming editions already have designated hosts.

Achievements under Motsepe's leadership

Since assuming office, Motsepe has implemented key reforms and developments across African football.

The prize money for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) was increased by over 40%, now standing at $7 million. Other competitions, including the CAF Men’s and Women’s Champions Leagues, also received significant financial boosts.

Motsepe was instrumental in launching the African Football League, which debuted in 2023 with an initial budget of $100 million. South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns were crowned inaugural champions.

Reactions from Nigerians on social media

Nigerians have shared mixed reactions to Motsepe's urge, with some believing it is possible, while others remain sceptical.

@CallMeFareed:

"I encourage this, but honestly, we need to address the image of our insecurity globally, and also rehabilitate most of our stadiums and the tourism sector."

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@woye1:

"Hosting means infrastructural development. South Africa hosted despite their crime rates. Yes, we must improve security, but we should forge ahead."

@OIOlawale:

"Anyone who has travelled the world would know that Nigeria can host a World Cup. The only challenge the country would face is insecurity. How many tourists would need to travel around with police escorts? Even in Lagos, which is relatively safe, you’d still need escorts to get around."

@richardomolion:

"Lagos can! Akwa Ibom can! Cross River can! Edo can! Delta can! Nigeria can!"

@fungistz:

"It’s possible."

@lagoschic:

"..ba kudi, these events never break even. We don’t want that."

Inside Patrice Motsepe’s quiet campaign

Briefly News previously reported that senior ANC members are quietly lobbying CAF President and Mamelodi Sundowns owner, Patrice Motsepe, to consider running for the party’s top leadership position ahead of the 2027 National Conference.

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Motsepe, known for his success in the football administration and business, is viewed as a credible and unifying figure who could help revitalise the ANC’s image.

Source: Briefly News