Who is Amaju Pinnick? Inside the career of CAF President’s new adviser

Amaju Melvin Pinnick, former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has been appointed Special Adviser to CAF President Patrice Motsepe. The appointment, announced on July 5, 2025, marks a high-level return for the influential football administrator, reinforcing Nigeria’s standing in African football politics.

Amaju Pinnick’s New Role with CAF

Amaju Pinnick was officially unveiled as Special Adviser to the CAF President during an Executive Committee meeting in Rabat, Morocco. His responsibilities include providing strategic advisory support to President Motsepe, attending executive meetings, and influencing key decisions around football development across Africa.

Motsepe acknowledged Pinnick’s widespread acceptance in CAF circles, stating, “I did not know Amaju is so loved in CAF,” according to sources close to the meeting. The appointment is already being celebrated by stakeholders in Nigerian football and beyond.

Amaju Pinnick Legacy at the Nigeria Football Federation

Amaju Pinnick served two terms as NFF President, from 2014 to 2022. Under his leadership, Nigerian football secured major sponsorships, improved team welfare, and increased international visibility. He also introduced reforms in administration and pushed for digital modernization of NFF operations.

Before leading the NFF, Pinnick was Chairman of the Delta State FA and the Delta State Sports Commission. His influence has long extended beyond local football, shaping national and continental conversations around governance and transparency.

CAF and FIFA Involvement

Amaju Pinnick’s continental and global experience includes a stint as CAF First Vice President (2018–2019) and as a member of the FIFA Council. He was also part of several strategic committees, including those handling competitions and ethics. His knowledge of global football governance makes him a valuable ally in CAF’s current modernization push.

Though he lost his FIFA Council seat in 2022, this new role signifies a comeback at the highest levels of African football leadership, with the potential to influence long-term policy and reforms.

What the Appointment Means for Nigeria

Nigerian officials, including the National Sports Commission (NSC), have celebrated Pinnick’s appointment. The NSC noted that the role will “elevate Nigeria’s football diplomacy” and place the country in a stronger position within African football’s power corridors.

Presidential aide Sunday Dare described Pinnick’s credentials as “undeniable,” highlighting his experience, integrity, and deep knowledge of the African football ecosystem.

Controversies and Comeback

Despite a decorated career, Pinnick has also faced challenges, including allegations of mismanagement during his NFF tenure. However, no convictions or formal sanctions were upheld, and Pinnick has continued to maintain a public profile as a football reform advocate.

This appointment is being viewed as a form of institutional vindication, proving his continued relevance and acceptance at the continental level.

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What’s Next for Amaju Pinnick?

With a seat back at CAF’s top table, Pinnick is expected to push for developmental initiatives, youth programs, and structural reforms that benefit African football. His knowledge of sponsorship strategy, commercial growth, and team management is likely to shape CAF’s priorities moving forward.

Observers believe this role could be a stepping stone to even bigger ambitions, potentially a future bid for CAF presidency or another return to global football politics.

Amaju Pinnick’s appointment as Special Adviser to CAF President Patrice Motsepe reflects both his enduring influence and the continent’s trust in his leadership. His return marks a new chapter in African football governance, one in which Nigeria continues to play a central role.