By Our Correspondent
National News – Nigerian football administrator Samson Adamu has been appointed Acting Secretary-General of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), becoming the first Nigerian to hold the position in the organisation’s more than 70-year history.
The appointment was confirmed on Sunday, March 29, 2026, during a meeting of the CAF Executive Committee and Congress at the Giza Palace Hotel in Cairo, Egypt.
Adamu’s emergence follows the resignation of Swiss-Congolese administrator Veron Mossengo-Omba, who stepped down amid criticism surrounding his leadership and controversies within the organisation.
Adamu, who previously served as CAF’s Director of Tournaments and Events, will now oversee the daily administrative and operational activities of the continental football body.
His appointment comes at a critical time for CAF, as the organisation faces increasing calls for transparency, accountability, and structural reforms in African football governance.
The leadership transition occurred after Mossengo-Omba announced his departure, saying he intended to retire from international football administration after more than three decades of service.
In a statement, he explained that his decision was motivated by a desire to focus on personal projects and new opportunities outside CAF.
However, CAF President Patrice Motsepe later clarified that Mossengo-Omba had been requested by authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo to assist with football development initiatives in the country.
Reports also suggest Mossengo-Omba may consider running for the presidency of the DR Congo Football Federation, a move that could influence future leadership dynamics within CAF.
Adamu’s appointment represents a historic milestone for Nigeria’s presence in continental football administration.
As Acting Secretary-General, he is expected to coordinate CAF’s programmes, manage internal operations, and help steer the organisation through ongoing governance reforms and heightened scrutiny from football stakeholders across Africa.
Observers believe Adamu’s experience in organising major tournaments and managing large-scale football events will be vital in restoring confidence and strengthening the administration of African football.
His leadership will also play a key role in shaping CAF’s strategic direction during this transitional period.
With African football expanding globally, Adamu’s new role places Nigeria at the heart of the sport’s continental decision-making structure.
