The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Nigerian football administrator, Samson Adamu, as its substantive General Secretary.
CAF announced the appointment on Sunday, November 1, 2026, following what it described as a comprehensive recruitment process in which the position was widely advertised and several candidates interviewed.
Adamu had been serving in an acting capacity since March 2026, following the resignation of his predecessor, Veron Mosengo-Omba, who later became president of the football federation in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
His appointment makes him the first Nigerian to occupy the position since CAF was established in 1957.
Adamu joined CAF in 2018 as Director of Competitions before subsequently serving as Director of Tournaments and Events.
During his eight years with the continental football governing body, he played a leading role in organising major competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
CAF President, Dr Patrice Motsepe, said Adamu’s appointment followed a competitive selection process involving several candidates.
He described the new General Secretary as an experienced football administrator with considerable institutional knowledge and expertise in African football.
Adamu is a graduate of the FIFA Master programme in International Management, Law and Humanities of Sport.
In his new role, he will oversee CAF’s day-to-day administration and support the implementation of the organisation’s strategic priorities.
He is the son of former FIFA Executive Committee member and Nigerian sports administrator, Dr Amos Adamu.
