Vice-President Kashim Shettima has urged newly appointed Confederation of African Football (CAF) General Secretary, Samson Adamu, to promote African football while ensuring that Nigeria’s interests are protected in his new international role.
Shettima described Adamu’s appointment as a significant achievement for Nigeria, noting that his emergence as the first Nigerian to occupy the position demonstrated the country’s capacity to produce leaders for international sporting institutions.
The Vice-President gave the charge on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja while receiving Adamu alongside a delegation led by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko.
Congratulating the new CAF General Secretary, Shettima, who conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill, encouraged him to approach the responsibility with integrity, patriotism, diligence and exemplary leadership.
He described Adamu as a source of inspiration for young Nigerians, urging him to use his position to advance the country’s interests and contribute to the development of football across the continent.
Shettima said Nigeria had established a strong presence in international sports through the abilities of its athletes and administrators, adding that the country had consistently demonstrated its potential on the global stage.
He also highlighted football’s importance as a unifying force in Nigeria, noting that the sport often brings together people across ethnic, religious and social differences.
According to him, the country’s diversity should be regarded as an advantage rather than a source of division, stressing that national unity remains stronger than the differences often emphasised in public discussions.
The Vice-President further acknowledged the contributions of coaches, talent scouts, sports administrators and institutions involved in discovering and developing Nigerian football talents.
He referenced former Nigerian football stars, including Rashidi Yekini, Austin ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha and Finidi George, noting that their achievements were made possible through the efforts of individuals and organisations that supported their development.
Earlier, Dikko commended President Tinubu and the Federal Government for their support for sports development, saying the administration’s commitment had helped strengthen Nigeria’s international sporting profile and create opportunities for investment.
He described Adamu’s appointment as an important milestone for Nigerian sports administration.
Dikko also disclosed that the Federal Government had approved Nigeria’s hosting of the CAF General Assembly in November and the CAF Awards in December 2026.
In his response, Adamu expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its support, describing his appointment as a historic moment for Nigeria.
He noted that he was the first Nigerian to become CAF General Secretary in the organisation’s 70-year history.
Adamu pledged to draw on his previous experience as CAF Director of Competitions to improve the administration of the continental football governing body and support the growth of the sport across Africa.
He also promised to contribute to efforts aimed at developing Nigeria’s football talents and strengthening the country’s position in continental and international competitions.
Adamu was appointed CAF General Secretary on Sunday, November 1, 2026, following a recruitment process by the continental football governing body. He will be responsible for overseeing the organisation’s day-to-day administration.
