RismadarVoice Reporters
November 4, 2026
Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged the newly appointed General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Samson Adamu, to demonstrate exemplary leadership and contribute meaningfully to the development of African football.
Shettima gave the charge on Tuesday while receiving Adamu and a delegation led by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The Vice President described Adamu’s appointment as the first Nigerian to occupy the position as an indication of the country’s capacity to produce administrators capable of holding influential positions in international sports organisations.
He said Nigeria’s sporting achievements over the years reflected the talent of its citizens, the dedication of sports administrators and the contributions of institutions responsible for discovering and developing athletes.
Congratulating Adamu, Shettima encouraged him to approach his new responsibilities with diligence, integrity and a commitment to advancing African football.
He also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill, describing the appointment as a source of national pride.
According to the Vice President, Nigerian professionals possess the expertise and experience required to contribute effectively to sports administration at the continental and global levels.
He urged Adamu to justify the confidence placed in him through effective leadership and service to the football community.
Speaking during the visit, Dikko described the appointment as an important development for Nigeria’s representation in African football administration.
He also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for approving Nigeria’s hosting of the CAF General Assembly and CAF Awards, scheduled for November and December 2026, respectively.
CAF officially announced Adamu’s appointment on November 1, following a recruitment exercise conducted by the continental football governing body.
The appointment was confirmed by CAF’s Executive Committee after the position was advertised and candidates interviewed.
Adamu had served as acting General Secretary since March 2026, following the departure of his predecessor, Veron Mosengo-Omba.
He joined CAF in 2018 as Director of Competitions before subsequently serving as Director of Tournaments and Events.
During his time with the organisation, he has participated in the administration of major continental competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations.
As General Secretary, Adamu will oversee CAF’s day-to-day administrative operations and support the implementation of its strategic priorities.
His appointment places a Nigerian administrator at the centre of the continental body’s operations as it continues efforts to strengthen football governance, competition management and institutional development across Africa.
