The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Nigeria’s Samson Adamu as Acting Secretary-General, marking the first time a Nigerian has occupied the influential role in the organisation’s more than 70-year history.
The appointment was ratified on Sunday at CAF’s Congress in Cairo, following his nomination by the CAF Executive Committee, according to the Nigeria Football Federation.
Adamu takes over from Veron Mosengo-Omba of the Democratic Republic of Congo, who stepped down to contest the presidential election of his country’s football federation (FECOFA).
Before his elevation, Adamu served as CAF’s Director of Tournaments and Events, where he played a key role in organising major continental competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and other flagship tournaments. His tenure was widely credited with improving operational efficiency and boosting the global profile of CAF competitions.
His appointment comes at a pivotal time for CAF, as the body intensifies reforms aimed at strengthening governance, expanding competitions, and driving commercial growth across African football.
As Acting Secretary-General, Adamu will oversee the day-to-day administration of the organisation, implement strategic initiatives, and support the CAF President and Executive Committee in executing their mandate.
The development is also seen as a significant boost for Nigeria’s presence in continental football administration, reflecting the country’s enduring influence both on and off the pitch.
While his role is currently in an acting capacity, stakeholders say his performance could shape decisions on a substantive appointment in the near future.
