The Nigerien Football Federation (FENIFOOT) has confirmed that Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali are working together on a joint bid to host the 2032 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), while also outlining plans to appoint a new national team coach following the departure of Moroccan manager Badou Zaki.
Speaking during a press conference in Niamey, FENIFOOT revealed that preparations for the ambitious bid have already been underway for several months as the three members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) seek to bring Africa’s biggest football tournament to the region.
The announcement represents one of the most ambitious football infrastructure projects undertaken by the three West African nations, with significant investment planned over the coming years to meet the requirements of hosting the continental showpiece.
According to the federation, the proposed bid includes six competition stadiums, with each of the three countries expected to provide two venues.
The plans also extend beyond stadium construction to include training facilities, medical infrastructure, transport networks and communication systems designed to satisfy international hosting standards.
FENIFOOT said discussions involving the football federations and government authorities of Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali are continuing as the countries work towards a coordinated bid.
For Niger specifically, the federation outlined major infrastructure projects that will be central to its contribution.
FENIFOOT president confirmed that the General Seyni Kountché Stadium is scheduled to undergo renovation between 2026 and 2027. In addition, the country plans to construct a new stadium before 2031 as part of its preparations for the proposed tournament.
The federation also acknowledged that infrastructure alone would not determine the success of the bid.
Officials identified the security situation across the Alliance of Sahel States as an important condition for hosting a tournament on the scale of the Africa Cup of Nations, underlining the broader challenges that accompany such a major sporting event.
While the long-term vision focuses on bringing AFCON to the region, FENIFOOT also addressed a more immediate issue concerning the national team’s technical leadership.
The federation clarified the circumstances surrounding the departure of former Morocco international and coach Badou Zaki, insisting that his exit was not the result of disagreements with football authorities.
According to the federation president, there were no delays in salary payments or contractual disputes between the two parties.
Instead, FENIFOOT maintained that the separation came after a personal decision by Zaki, bringing an end to his spell in charge of the Mena without conflict.
The federation also took the opportunity to acknowledge the work completed during the Moroccan’s tenure, praising his contribution to the development of the national team before his departure.
Attention has now shifted towards finding his replacement.
FENIFOOT disclosed that it has already received numerous applications from coaches interested in taking charge of Niger.
The federation wants to appoint a new manager as quickly as possible to ensure preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers continue without significant disruption.
The search highlights the dual priorities currently facing Nigerien football.
On one hand, the country is pursuing a long-term vision centred on improved infrastructure and a joint bid to host AFCON in 2032 alongside Mali and Burkina Faso.
