Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has pledged the state government’s support for the new Secretary-General of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Samson Adamu, as he assumes responsibility for advancing football administration across the continent.
Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance on Friday when Adamu paid him a courtesy visit at Lagos House, Marina, calling for stronger collaboration among stakeholders in Nigerian football, particularly the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), to address existing challenges and unlock the country’s enormous potential in the sport.
The governor congratulated Adamu on his appointment, describing him as a source of pride to Nigeria and the African football community.
He commended his professionalism and commitment to football administration, expressing confidence in his ability to uphold high standards of integrity and contribute to the development of the game across Africa.
Sanwo-Olu stressed the need for improved cooperation among football stakeholders, noting that Nigeria’s football administration must demonstrate stronger leadership and collective commitment to overcome its challenges.
He also highlighted Lagos State’s investment in sports infrastructure and grassroots development, describing sports as an important instrument for youth empowerment, economic growth, talent discovery and social development.
The governor disclosed that the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere had undergone extensive refurbishment as part of efforts to position Lagos to host major international football competitions.
He further reaffirmed the state’s readiness to host the CAF Awards, assuring the continental football governing body of Lagos’ full cooperation in delivering a successful ceremony.
Speaking earlier, Adamu described his visit to Lagos as a homecoming, acknowledging the state’s contribution to his professional journey and development in football administration.
The CAF Secretary-General, who previously worked closely with football stakeholders in Lagos, pledged to strengthen collaboration with the state government and the NFF to identify and nurture football talents across Nigeria.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s hosting responsibilities, including the forthcoming CAF General Assembly in Abuja and the CAF Awards in Lagos, describing the events as opportunities to showcase the country’s organisational capacity and enhance its standing in African football.
According to him, the events are expected to attract prominent football administrators, former players and leading talents from across the continent, providing an opportunity to project a positive image of Nigeria and Lagos to the international community.
Adamu expressed optimism that stronger partnerships among football stakeholders would contribute to the growth and development of the game in Nigeria and across Africa.
Source: Sports Archives – New Telegraph
