Shettima Hails Samson Adamu's CAF Appointment as Source of National Pride

Posted : 05 November 2026

Vice President Kashim Shettima has described Samson Adamu's appointment as General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a major source of national pride and recognition of Nigeria's capacity to produce leaders for international sports administration.

Shettima made the remarks on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, while receiving Adamu alongside the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, and other sports officials.

The Vice President congratulated Adamu on becoming the first Nigerian to occupy the position in CAF's history. He said the achievement demonstrated the quality of Nigerian professionals and their ability to contribute to the development of sports beyond the country's borders.

Shettima also conveyed President Bola Tinubu's goodwill to the newly appointed administrator. He urged Adamu to approach his responsibilities with integrity, diligence and a strong sense of national pride while contributing to the growth of African football.

"Our nation has earned its place in the world of sports. We have flown our flag in arenas where few expected us to perform magic. We have made the impossible appear almost familiar, fundamentally because of the quality of our people," Shettima said.

He further highlighted football's importance in promoting national unity, noting that the sport continues to bring Nigerians together regardless of their ethnic, religious and social backgrounds.

The Vice President also acknowledged the contributions of coaches, talent scouts, administrators and sporting institutions in developing Nigerian athletes. He referenced legendary footballers such as Rashidi Yekini, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha and Finidi George, stressing that their achievements were supported by people who identified and developed their abilities.

Earlier, Shehu Dikko described Adamu's appointment as an important milestone for Nigerian sports administration. He thanked the Federal Government for its continued investment in sports and its efforts to strengthen Nigeria's international sporting profile.

Dikko also disclosed that Nigeria had received government approval to host the 2026 CAF General Assembly in November and the CAF Awards in December. The events are expected to create opportunities for international partnerships, investment and greater visibility for Nigerian sports.

In his response, Adamu described his appointment as historic, noting that he was the first Nigerian to become CAF General Secretary in the organisation's nearly 70-year history.

He pledged to use his administrative experience to strengthen CAF's operations and support the continued development of African football. Adamu also expressed his commitment to helping Nigeria maximise its football potential at continental and international levels.

CAF officially confirmed Adamu's appointment on November 1, 2026, following a recruitment process approved by its Executive Committee.

He previously served as CAF's Director of Competitions and Director of Tournaments and Events after joining the organisation in 2018. He had also occupied the General Secretary position in an acting capacity since March 2026.

As General Secretary, Adamu will oversee CAF's daily administration and help implement the organisation's policies and strategic priorities.

Shettima Hails Samson Adamu's CAF Appointment as Source of National Pride

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics