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Newly appointed Acting General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Samson Adamu, has pledged to leave a lasting legacy as he assumes one of the most influential administrative roles in African football.
Adamu’s appointment was confirmed on Sunday, March 29, 2026, during a CAF Executive Committee meeting held at the Giza Palace Hotel. His nomination, put forward by CAF President Patrice Motsepe, received full ratification from the committee.
Speaking after his appointment, Adamu expressed both gratitude and determination to serve the continent’s football community.
“I am elated by this appointment. I am determined to serve African football with humility, integrity, and professionalism,” he said.
Adamu becomes the first Nigerian—and indeed the first West African—to occupy the position in CAF’s 69-year history, marking a significant milestone for the region in continental football administration.
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His journey to the top echelon of African football governance has been shaped by years of dedication and innovation. Fifteen years ago, he founded COPA Lagos, an invitational beach soccer tournament that attracted top global teams to Nigeria. The competition, staged with high standards in organisation, marketing, and entertainment, elevated Nigeria’s profile in beach soccer and contributed to the country hosting the CAF Beach Soccer Cup of Nations 2016.
Adamu’s administrative acumen earned him a place within CAF, where he rose through the ranks from Director of Competitions to Director of Tournaments and Events before his latest elevation.
He follows in the footsteps of his father, Amos Adamu, a prominent figure in Nigerian and global sports administration. Dr. Adamu previously served as Sole Administrator of the Nigeria Football Association (now the Nigeria Football Federation), Director of Sports Development in the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports, and Director General of the National Sports Commission.
Dr. Adamu also played key roles in major international sporting events, including Nigeria’s hosting of the 1999 FIFA World Youth Championship and the co-hosting of the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations. He later served on both the CAF and FIFA Executive Committees, further cementing the family’s legacy in football administration.
With his appointment, Samson Adamu is expected to bring a blend of innovation, experience, and continental perspective to CAF’s operations as the organization continues to drive the growth and global competitiveness of African football.
