A significant administrative shift has taken place within the Confederation of African Football, with Nigerian football official Samson Adamu named as acting secretary general—marking a historic first for Nigeria since the organisation’s establishment in 1957.

The appointment was ratified on Sunday during a CAF congress meeting held in Cairo, Egypt, following the resignation of Veron Mosengo-Omba, who stepped down from the role the same day.

Adamu’s elevation represents a milestone moment, not only for his career but also for Nigerian football administration, which has long sought greater representation at the highest decision-making levels within CAF. His appointment ends a decades-long absence of Nigerians in the organisation’s top administrative office.

Prior to this development, Adamu served as CAF’s director of tournaments and events, where he played a central role in coordinating and delivering major continental competitions. His experience in managing large-scale football events is seen as a key factor behind his selection.

Newly appointed CAF Secretary-General, Samson Adamu, standing behind CAF President’s Special Adviser, Amaju Pinnick and NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, in Cairo on Sunday. Credit: NFF via NAN
The CAF Executive Committee initially put forward his name before it received formal approval from the congress, underscoring broad institutional backing for his appointment.

The secretary general position is widely regarded as the operational backbone of CAF, overseeing daily administration, legal affairs, and the execution of policies and decisions taken by the executive leadership.

Adamu now steps into the role at a crucial time for African football, as CAF continues to implement reforms and strengthen its governance structures. His tenure, even in an acting capacity, is expected to play a vital role in shaping the organisation’s administrative direction in the months ahead.