The development comes as CAF’s Executive Committee convenes in Cairo, with President Dr Patrice Motsepe scheduled to address the media immediately after the meeting. Mosengo-Omba, who has served as General Secretary since March 2021, is stepping down amid ongoing discussions around governance and the expiration of his extended tenure.
From Copa Lagos to the Heart of CAF
Samson Adamu’s journey in football administration is a classic Nigerian success story. Before joining CAF, the Nigerian pioneered and organised the popular Copa Lagos Beach Soccer Tournament as CEO of Kinetic Sports. Under his leadership, Copa Lagos grew into one of Africa’s most recognised beach soccer events, helping to put Nigerian beach soccer on the global map and contributing significantly to the growth of the sport on the continent.
His expertise in organising high-level competitions earned him a move to CAF, where he rose to become Director of Competitions. In this role, Adamu has been instrumental in the planning, execution, and modernisation of major CAF tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), CAF Champions League, and other flagship events. His professionalism, attention to detail, and deep understanding of African football logistics have earned him widespread respect across the continent.
Nigeria’s Rising Influence in CAF
This potential appointment further cements Nigeria’s strong position within CAF’s leadership structure. With Amaju Pinnick recently appointed as CAF First Vice-President and other Nigerians holding influential roles, the Super Eagles’ home federation continues to exert considerable administrative weight in African football governance.
Many observers view Adamu’s emergence as a natural progression — an internal candidate with proven delivery and institutional knowledge at a time when CAF needs stability and seamless transition. While Gelson Fernandes (FIFA’s Deputy Director of Member Associations) has also been mentioned as a frontrunner, Adamu remains the clear favourite among several CAF Executive Committee members.
What This Means for African Football
As Acting General Secretary, Adamu will play a pivotal role in the day-to-day operations of CAF, supporting President Motsepe in driving reforms, improving tournament quality, and strengthening the administrative framework of African football.
His wealth of experience — from grassroots beach soccer promotion in Lagos to managing continent-wide competitions — positions him uniquely to bridge developmental gaps and enhance the commercial and competitive appeal of CAF events.
Congratulations to Samson Adamu on this well-deserved elevation! This move not only highlights individual excellence but also underscores Nigeria’s growing dominance in African football administration.
Nigeria is indeed at the top in CAF — both on and off the pitch.