FG Celebrates Adamu's CAF SG Appointment, Commits to Sports Diplomacy

The Federal Government has expressed congratulations to Mr. Samson Adamu on his recent confirmation as the Secretary General of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This appointment was described as a significant milestone for Nigeria and reflective of the country’s growing influence in international sports administration. The Vice President of Nigeria, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima GCON, made these remarks during a courtesy visit by Adamu at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa on Tuesday.

Adamu was accompanied by Mallam Shehu Dikko, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), along with Hon. Bukola Olopade, the Director General of NSC, NFF’s Acting General Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Ikpeme, and other officials from the NSC and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). During the meeting, Vice President Shettima congratulated Adamu, highlighting that his ascent to the top of football administration in Africa underscores the quality of human resources among Nigerians.

Adamu joined CAF as the Director of Competitions in 2018, and on that Tuesday afternoon, he arrived in Abuja for an executive assessment of Nigeria’s preparations to host two major CAF events: the Ordinary General Assembly scheduled for November 21, and the 2026 CAF Awards set for December 10 in Lagos. The following day, Adamu visited the NSC Chairman, who welcomed him as part of their community and praised him for exemplifying the potential for success through hard work and integrity.

Dikko noted that Adamu’s appointment marked a historical achievement as he became the first Nigerian Secretary General in CAF's 69-year history. He emphasized that Adamu earned this position through dedication and competence towards African football, while reaffirming the Federal Government's commitment to international sports diplomacy. Furthermore, Dikko highlighted Nigeria’s readiness to host the upcoming CAF Ordinary General Assembly and Awards ceremony, asserting that these events would reinforce Nigeria's relationship with CAF and create economic opportunities in hospitality, tourism, and transport.

The Federal Government announced that it had established a special budget line for international sports diplomacy to support Nigerians aspiring to influential roles in global sports organizations. In response, Adamu expressed gratitude to the NSC leadership for fostering high-level engagements with the Vice President and for their ongoing efforts to enhance the relationship between Nigeria and CAF. He acknowledged the substantial responsibility of his new role, underscoring his readiness to serve not only Nigeria but also the 54 affiliated member associations in Africa.

Adamu encouraged young African sports professionals to persist in their careers, noting that his experiences with the Nigeria Football Federation and local sports initiatives significantly contributed to his professional journey. Hon. Bukola Olopade, the Director-General of NSC, praised Adamu’s appointment as a remarkable achievement for both Nigerian and African sports, expressing confidence in a bright future for African football under the leadership of CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe.