The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports, Comrade Philip Shaibu, says the appointment of Samson Adamu as the substantive General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football, CAF, reflects Nigeria’s growing international recognition and influence in football administration.
Shaibu, while congratulating Adamu on his confirmation, described the development as a testament to his competence, dedication and years of experience in football management, adding that it represents a significant milestone for Nigeria and the continent.
Adamu’s confirmation, announced on October 29, 2026, makes him the first Nigerian to occupy the position in CAF’s history.
Adamu’s rise to the top administrative position in African football follows years of professional development and experience in sports management.
He studied Business Management and Computer Science at the American University of Paris before obtaining a postgraduate qualification through the FIFA Master programme in International Management, Law and Humanities of Sport, graduating in 2009.
Before joining CAF, Adamu built his career in sports marketing and event management through Kinetic Sport Management, where he played a leading role in establishing and organising Copa Lagos, an international beach soccer tournament that helped raise Nigeria’s profile in the sport.
He joined CAF in 2018 as Director of Competitions and later served as Director of Tournaments and Events, overseeing key aspects of competition planning, match operations and tournament delivery
Adamu became Acting General Secretary in March 2026 following the resignation of Véron Mosengo-Omba before his confirmation as the substantive officeholder.
His appointment is widely regarded as a major achievement for Nigerian football administration, placing a Nigerian at the helm of CAF’s day-to-day administration and offering an opportunity to contribute further to the growth of football across Africa.
Signed:
Callistus Ebare,
Office of the Director General and Chief Executive Officer National Institute for Sports ADC Abuja.