Encomium
•Governor pledges support for CAF Secretary-General, Samson Adamu
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders in Nigerian football, particularly the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), noting that the country’s football administration must address existing challenges and demonstrate greater leadership to unlock its potential.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the appeal on Friday during a courtesy visit by the new Secretary-General of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Mr. Samson Adamu, at Lagos House, Marina.
The Governor pledged Lagos State Government’s support for the new Secretary-General of the Confederation of African Football, as he assumes responsibility for advancing football administration across the continent.
Governor Sanwo-Olu congratulated Adamu on his appointment, describing him as a source of pride for Nigeria and the African football community.
He commended Adamu’s professionalism and commitment to football administration, expressing confidence in his ability to uphold high standards of integrity and take African football to greater heights.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also highlighted Lagos’ commitment to sports development, disclosing that the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere had undergone extensive refurbishment as part of efforts to attract major international football competitions.
He said the government was investing in sports infrastructure and grassroots development, stressing that sports remained an important tool for youth empowerment, economic growth, talent discovery and social development.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also reaffirmed Lagos’ readiness to host the CAF Awards, assuring the continental football body of the state’s full cooperation in delivering a successful event.
Speaking earlier, CAF Secretary-General, Samson Adamu, described the visit as a homecoming, acknowledging Lagos State’s contribution to his professional journey and growth in football administration.
Adamu, who previously worked closely with football stakeholders in Lagos State, pledged to strengthen collaboration with the State and the Nigeria Football Federation to identify and develop football talents across the country.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s hosting responsibilities, including the forthcoming CAF General Assembly in Abuja and the CAF Awards in Lagos, describing both events as opportunities to showcase the country’s capacity and strengthen its profile in African football.
The CAF Secretary-General expressed optimism that the events would attract key football stakeholders, former players and leading talents from across the continent, while projecting a positive image of Nigeria and Lagos to the international community.
