Vice President Kashim Shettima has congratulated Samson Adamu on his appointment as General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), describing it as a testament to Nigeria's capacity to produce leaders capable of occupying influential positions in global sports administration. Shettima made the remarks at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, while receiving Adamu and the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko. The Vice President noted that Nigeria's sporting achievements had been driven by the dedication, talent, and determination of its people.
Shettima emphasized that Adamu's appointment reflected the quality of Nigerian talent and the country's growing influence in international sports. He acknowledged the contributions of administrators and institutions responsible for discovering, developing, and promoting athletes. The Vice President conveyed President Bola Tinubu's goodwill to Adamu, describing his appointment as an inspiration to young Nigerians aspiring to attain leadership positions in international sports administration.
The Vice President urged Adamu to discharge his responsibilities with diligence, integrity, and a strong sense of national pride, while encouraging him to promote and protect Nigeria's interests in CAF. Shettima also emphasized the unifying power of football in Nigeria, noting that the sport continues to transcend ethnic, religious, and other social differences. He stated that football is a uniting force in the country, subsuming all other identities whenever Nigeria plays.
Shettima highlighted the importance of Nigeria's diversity, maintaining that the country's shared history and social connections are stronger than the divisions often emphasized in public discourse. He acknowledged the contributions of coaches, talent scouts, sports administrators, and institutions whose efforts provide the foundation for Nigeria's achievements in international competitions. The Vice President noted that these individuals often receive little recognition despite their significant contributions.
Earlier, Dikko expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its continued support for sports development, noting that the administration's commitment had strengthened Nigeria's international sporting profile and created opportunities for investment. The NSC chairman described Adamu's emergence as CAF General Secretary as a significant milestone for Nigerian sports administration. He also commended the Federal Government for approving Nigeria's hosting of the CAF General Assembly and CAF Awards.
Dikko maintained that government support for sports development had improved the country's capacity to attract international investment through sporting activities, partnerships, and major continental events. In his response, Adamu described his appointment as a historic achievement, noting that he is the first Nigerian to occupy the position in CAF's 70-year history. He pledged to draw on his experience as CAF's former Director of Competitions to strengthen the organization's administration.
Adamu was appointed CAF General Secretary on November 1, following a recruitment process conducted by the continental football governing body. In his new capacity, he will oversee CAF's day-to-day administration and play a central role in implementing the organization's policies and programs. Adamu also expressed his commitment to supporting Nigeria's efforts to harness its abundant football talent and maximize the country's potential at both continental and international levels.
Key points
- Vice President Kashim Shettima congratulates Samson Adamu on his historic appointment as General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football
- Adamu's appointment is a testament to Nigeria's capacity to produce leaders capable of occupying influential positions in global sports administration
- The Vice President urges Adamu to discharge his responsibilities with diligence, integrity, and a strong sense of national pride
