Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has endorsed Ethiopia’s bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing the country as ready to stage a successful tournament after inspecting the 52,000-capacity Bahir Dar Stadium.

Mahama praised the stadium’s facilities and its certification by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), saying Ethiopia deserved an opportunity to host the continental competition after a lengthy absence.

“This is a very impressive stadium, a 52,000-capacity stadium, and it’s already CAF-certified,” Mahama said during the inspection, which was attended by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and other African leaders participating in the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa.

Ethiopia last hosted the AFCON in 1976. Its bid to stage the 2028 edition would mark a return to hosting the tournament after more than five decades.

Mahama’s endorsement adds support to Ethiopia’s ambition, although the final decision on the host nation rests with CAF.

CAF certification of Bahir Dar Stadium is an important element of the country’s preparations, although its overall bid will be assessed against the governing body’s hosting requirements.