The confirmation was announced on Thursday, 29 October 2026, with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) congratulating Adamu on his appointment.
NFF Acting General Secretary Emmanuel Ikpeme described the development as significant for Nigerian football administration and expressed confidence in Adamu’s ability to succeed in the role.
He said the federation was delighted with the appointment and pledged its support to Adamu as a member association under CAF.
Adamu succeeds Mosengo-Omba
Adamu’s confirmation follows the departure of Swiss-Congolese administrator Véron Mosengo-Omba, who stepped down as CAF General Secretary in March 2026 after more than five years in the position.
Following his departure, CAF appointed Adamu as acting General Secretary on 29 March while the process of selecting a substantive successor was expected to take place.
Before his elevation, Adamu served as CAF Director of Tournaments and Events, having previously worked as Director of Competitions. His responsibilities included overseeing the organisation and delivery of major continental football competitions.
His experience in tournament administration placed him at the centre of CAF’s competition operations and engagement with host countries and member associations.
First Nigerian to hold the position
Adamu’s confirmation marks a historic milestone for Nigeria, which has now secured representation at the highest administrative level of African football’s governing body.
As General Secretary, he will oversee CAF’s secretariat and play a central role in the organisation’s daily administration, including the implementation of decisions taken by its governing bodies and coordination with the 54 member associations.
The appointment also gives Nigeria a prominent administrative presence within CAF as the confederation continues to manage its major competitions and development programmes across the continent.
NFF pledges support
Reacting to the development, Ikpeme praised Adamu’s knowledge and experience in football administration, describing him as a well-rounded professional who has continued to improve himself.
The NFF said it would provide the necessary support to the new CAF General Secretary and wished him success in his responsibilities.
Adamu’s journey from Director of Competitions to Director of Tournaments and Events, then acting General Secretary and now substantive General Secretary, represents a significant progression in his career within African football administration.