Former FIFA Council member and ex-CAF First Vice-President, Amaju Pinnick, has secured another influential position within African football governance, following his appointment as Special Adviser to the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe.
The appointment was announced by Motsepe during a media briefing on Saturday night, where he revealed that Pinnick would be playing a strategic role by providing key advisory support and attending all CAF meetings to help drive his administration’s objectives.
Reacting to the development, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulated Pinnick. He described the appointment as a clear recognition of Pinnick’s towering reputation in both African and global football circles, underpinned by his competence, integrity and extensive experience.
“This is bigger than football alone. I have consistently urged our sports administrators to strive for leadership roles in international federations. Pinnick’s new position underscores his status as one of the leading figures in African and world football. His accomplishments speak for themselves,” Dikko remarked.
Highlighting Pinnick’s vast track record, he noted that over the past decade, Pinnick has played prominent roles in football governance — from leading the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to serving as WAFU Vice President, CAF Executive Committee member, CAF First Vice-President, and FIFA Council member.
Dikko further expressed optimism that this appointment would positively impact Nigerian football, recalling Pinnick’s efforts in facilitating positions for more than 20 Nigerians across WAFU, CAF, and FIFA bodies.
“These individuals continue to contribute to global football development, bringing pride to Nigeria thanks to Pinnick’s patriotic drive and selfless commitment. I am confident this latest elevation will similarly benefit our football,” he added.
He also pointed out that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration had fully backed Pinnick during the last FIFA Council elections, demonstrating foresight by endorsing his candidacy and offering substantial support through the NSC. “This appointment validates the wisdom of that decision and stands as a reward for the Federal Government’s efforts,” Dikko said.
Echoing these sentiments, NSC Director-General Hon. Bukula Olopade praised Pinnick for consistently flying Nigeria’s flag high on the global stage. “His deep networks and diplomatic skills at international football levels are exceptional. We are truly proud of him and will keep supporting capable Nigerians to reach such global heights,” Olopade stated.
CAF President Motsepe, explaining why he picked Pinnick — who was instrumental to his own emergence as CAF President — admitted he was struck by how highly Pinnick is regarded within the African football community. “I did not realize Amaju is so widely loved in CAF,” Motsepe confessed, adding that the appointment reflects appreciation of Pinnick’s value and the strategic expertise he brings to advancing football across Africa.