The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed Samson Adamu as its substantive General Secretary, making him the first Nigerian to occupy the position since the continental football governing body was established in 1957.
Adamu’s appointment follows his designation as interim General Secretary in March after the resignation of his predecessor, Veron Mosengo-Omba.
The 40-year-old previously served as CAF’s Director of Competitions before assuming the administrative leadership of the organisation following approval by its Executive Committee.
His confirmation marks a major milestone for Nigeria, as he becomes the first Nigerian to hold the position in CAF’s nearly seven-decade history.
Adamu has been involved in the organisation of major continental football competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the CAF Champions League.
As General Secretary, he will oversee CAF’s day-to-day administration, legal affairs and the implementation of decisions taken by the Executive Committee.
The position is central to the organisation’s operations, placing him at the heart of the administration of African football.
Adamu holds a FIFA Master’s degree in Management, Law and Humanities of Sport.
He began his career in football administration in the early 2010s with the establishment of the now-defunct Copa Lagos beach soccer tournament, which helped launch his career in sports governance.
His appointment places a Nigerian at the forefront of CAF’s administrative structure for the first time since the organisation’s establishment.
