Previously serving as acting secretary general, Adamu has now assumed this strategic position on a permanent basis, succeeding Veron Mosengo-Omba, who now heads the DRC Football Federation.
A statement from CAF dated November 1st, 2026 stated: “CAF has confirmed the appointment of Samson Adamu as the organisation’s new general secretary. Adamu, who has occupied the role in an acting capacity since March 2026, was confirmed by the CAF Executive Committee (“EXCO”) this week.”
CAF President Patrice Motsepe said the appointment followed a comprehensive recruitment process, during which the position was widely advertised and several candidates were interviewed.
He was appointed to the role in March 2026 following the resignation of Veron Mosengo-Omba, stepping in on an interim basis during a period of leadership transition within the organisation.
Before taking over as CAF secretary in an acting capacity, he also held roles in competition management, and served as Director of Competitions, overseeing the coordination and organisation of CAF tournaments.
Adamu brings extensive experience in African football administration, having joined CAF in 2018 as Director of Competitions before subsequently serving as Director of Tournaments and Events.
During his time at CAF, he has played a leading role in the delivery of several major continental competitions, including CAF's flagship tournament, the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations.
A graduate of the FIFA Master programme in International Management, Law and Humanities of Sport, Adamu brings considerable institutional knowledge and experience to his new role, in which he will oversee CAF's day-to-day administration and support the implementation of its strategic priorities.
Adamu began his professional career at Kinetic Sport Management, where he worked for several years. During this period, he was involved in the organisation and development of Copa Lagos, an international beach soccer tournament held in Nigeria.
He studied Business Management and Computer Science at the American University of Paris, and later completed the FIFA Master in 2009, a postgraduate programme in sport management, law and humanities organised by the International Centre for Sports Studies and delivered across universities in Europe.
FUFA welcomes Adamu’s appointment
Meanwhile, the Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA) President has congratulated CAF boss Motsepe, on the appointment of Adamu.
In his congratulatory message, Magogo praised Adamu’s qualifications, experience and understanding of African football, describing him as an ideal fit for the role.
“His FIFA Master, experience, knowledge of African football, composure, fair-mindedness, attention to detail and humility make him second to none for this role,” said Magogo.
Magogo expressed confidence in CAF’s leadership, noting that African football was in safe hands under the leadership of Dr Motsepe and Adamu.
“African football is in the safest hands of a passionate, able and hardworking President and a natural General Secretary. As an FA President, it could not have been better.”
Kenya Sports Minister Salim Mvurya said on the appointment: “I wish to convey my sincere congratulations to Samson Adamu on his appointment as the Secretary General of CAF.
“Your wealth of experience, distinguished leadership and longstanding contribution to African football administration position you to advance the growth, competitiveness and global standing of football across the continent.
“On behalf of the government of Kenya and the Kenyan football fraternity, we extend our best wishes and reaffirm our commitment to strengthening collaboration with CAF, particularly as Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania prepare to host the historic AFCON PAMOJA 2027.
“Congratulations and best wishes for a successful tenure.”
The FUFA President also welcomed the timing of the confirmation, which came while Adamu was in Uganda, and extended his congratulations once again on the appointment.
