According to a report by Vanguard on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, Vice President Kashim Shettima has praised the abilities of Nigerians to occupy important leadership positions in international sports organisations, describing Samson Adamu’s appointment as the first Nigerian General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as another demonstration of the country’s potential.

Shettima made the remarks at the Presidential Villa in Abuja while receiving Adamu, who was accompanied by a delegation led by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Malam Shehu Dikko.

During the meeting, the Vice President congratulated Adamu on his appointment and urged him to use the opportunity to demonstrate professionalism, commitment and exemplary leadership in the administration and development of football across Africa.

Shettima said Nigeria’s achievements in sports were a reflection of the talent, experience and determination of its people. He noted that Nigerians had repeatedly demonstrated their ability to compete internationally and contribute meaningfully to different sporting activities.

He also acknowledged the contributions of sports administrators and institutions responsible for identifying, nurturing and promoting talented individuals, stressing that the country’s sporting successes were not achieved by athletes alone.

According to the Vice President, effective sports administration and strong institutions have played an important role in creating opportunities for Nigerians to gain recognition beyond the country’s borders.

He described Adamu’s emergence as CAF General Secretary as a significant milestone for Nigeria, adding that the appointment further demonstrated the capacity of Nigerians to occupy influential positions within international sporting organisations.

Shettima urged the newly appointed official to recognise the responsibility attached to his position and ensure that his work contributes positively to the progress of African football.

He also encouraged Adamu to maintain high standards of leadership and use his experience to support the development of the game across the continent.

Speaking at the reception, Shettima said: “Our nation has earned its place in the world of sports. We have flown our flag in arenas where few expected us to perform magic and we have made the impossible appear almost familiar, fundamentally because of the quality of our people.”

The Vice President’s remarks highlighted the importance of human resources, institutional support and effective administration in strengthening Nigeria’s presence in international sports.

Adamu’s appointment is particularly significant as he becomes the first Nigerian to occupy the position of CAF General Secretary, a role that carries considerable responsibility for the organisation’s administrative operations and activities involving football associations across Africa.