Nest of Champions Retains Top Spot as Champions League Returns to Uyo
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, also known as the Nest of Champions, has maintained its top ranking in the latest report by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The stadium remains one of the best football facilities in Africa and the only venue in Nigeria approved to host international matches.
Reacting to the announcement, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to continuously maintain and upgrade sports facilities to meet international standards.
Elder Bassey, who recently inspected all sporting facilities in the state, expressed joy that the stadium has successfully hosted major events including the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualifying matches, Rivers United’s CAF Champions League preliminary games, and the Davido “5ive Alive” Tour Concert.
The iconic stadium is now set to host the 2025/26 CAF Champions League group stage matches, with Nigeria’s Rivers United scheduled to face RS Berkane of Morocco on November 30, Power Dynamos of Zambia on February 1, and Pyramids of Egypt on February 8, 2026.
Elder Bassey praised Governor Umo Eno for his steady support and timely funding of sports projects, saying the administration is committed to sustaining these investments.
“We are proud that the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium — the Nest of Champions — has been recognised among the best in Africa,” Elder Bassey said.
“We must commend Governor Umo Eno for his dedication to maintaining top-quality sports infrastructure. Many countries lack such facilities and are forced to play their home matches elsewhere. We are truly fortunate.”
He added that having world-class facilities like the Nest of Champions will continue to promote sports tourism and boost the state’s economy.
CAF’s approval follows a recent round of inspections across the continent to ensure that stadiums meet safety and security standards for international matches.
