Adamu makes history as first Nigerian named CAF acting secretary general

Nigerian football administrator Samson Adamu has been appointed Acting Secretary General of the Confederation of African Football, becoming the first Nigerian to occupy the role in the organisation’s 70-year history, Sport360NG reports. 

Adamu, formerly CAF’s Director of Tournaments and Events, succeeds Veron Mossengo-Omba, who stepped down on Sunday following mounting criticism over his tenure and controversy surrounding the handling of Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations title.

The decision to install Adamu in the interim role was put forward by CAF’s Executive Committee and subsequently approved by Congress during its meeting at the Giza Palace Hotel in Cairo, Egypt.

His appointment comes at a critical moment for African football, with CAF facing increasing scrutiny over governance and competition-related decisions.

Mossengo-Omba announced his exit as a voluntary retirement, stating his intention to pursue personal interests after more than three decades in international football administration.

“After over 30 years of an international professional career dedicated to promoting football as a unifying force that educates and inspires hope, I have decided to step down and focus on personal projects,” he said in a statement, adding that he leaves CAF in a stronger position.

However, his departure follows sustained criticism, including concerns about his continued stay in office beyond CAF’s stipulated retirement age of 63 and calls for improved transparency within the organisation.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe offered a differing perspective, revealing that Mossengo-Omba had been approached by the Democratic Republic of Congo to contribute to football development efforts.

Speculation has since emerged that Mossengo-Omba could pursue the presidency of DR Congo’s football federation, potentially positioning himself for a future leadership role within CAF, though Motsepe has dismissed such suggestions.

Adamu now takes charge during a period of transition, with the immediate task of stabilising CAF’s administration and reinforcing confidence in the governance of African football.