Nigerian football administrator Samson Adamu has made history after being confirmed as the substantive General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), becoming the first Nigerian to occupy the position in the organisation’s history.

The confirmation, represents a major milestone for Nigeria’s presence in African football administration and brings Adamu’s journey within the continental football governing body to a new level.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) congratulated Adamu on his confirmation, describing the development as good news for Nigerian football administration.

Reacting to the appointment, NFF Acting General Secretary, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, expressed confidence in Adamu’s ability to discharge his responsibilities effectively and contribute to the development of African football.

Ikpeme described Adamu as a knowledgeable football administrator who has continued to improve his professional capacity and possesses considerable experience in football management.

He also reaffirmed the NFF’s commitment to supporting Adamu in his new position, noting that Nigeria, as a CAF member association, would provide the necessary cooperation.

Before his elevation, Adamu served as CAF’s Director of Competitions and later became Director of Tournaments and Events, where he was involved in the organisation and coordination of major continental football competitions.

He was initially appointed Acting General Secretary on March 29, 2026, following the resignation of his predecessor, Swiss-Congolese football administrator Véron Mosengo-Omba.

His subsequent confirmation as substantive General Secretary marks the culmination of that leadership transition and establishes him as the first Nigerian to hold CAF’s top administrative position.

CAF, headquartered in Cairo, Egypt, is responsible for governing and developing football across Africa, including the organisation of major competitions such as the Africa Cup of Nations and continental club tournaments.

As General Secretary, Adamu will occupy a central position in the organisation’s administrative structure, overseeing its secretariat and coordinating the implementation of decisions taken by its leadership.

His emergence is expected to attract considerable attention in Nigeria’s football community, given the importance of the position in shaping the administration and operational direction of African football.

Samson Adamu has been confirmed as CAF General Secretary, becoming the first Nigerian to occupy the continental football body’s top administrative position.