Veron Mosengo-Omba has retired from his role as General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football, bringing an end to what insiders have described as a period marked by “serious institutional crisis” and internal dysfunction.
Mosengo-Omba’s tenure had come under intense scrutiny in recent months, particularly over his decision to remain in office despite exceeding CAF’s statutory age limit.
Under CAF Regulation 130, staff must retire at 63, with a maximum three-year extension. Having been appointed in 2021, Mosengo-Omba’s extension expired in October 2025.
Mosengo-Omba had been affected by the age-limit rule but remained in position, continuing to take decisions. These reportedly included staff dismissals and promotions carried out without consultation with CAF’s Executive Committee, contrary to the organisation’s statutes.
Internal reports are said to have challenged his management, highlighting “numerous dysfunctions” that could have consequences for proceedings at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Relations between Mosengo-Omba and CAF’s Executive Committee had deteriorated in recent months, making his departure increasingly likely. He is also understood to have explored a move into national federation leadership in DR Congo before stepping down.
Attention has now turned to his successor, with two leading candidates emerging.
According to journalist Romain Molina, who has insider knowledge of CAF’s internal workings, the organisation’s Director of Competitions Samson Adamu has emerged as the early favourite to replace him.
The Nigerian administrator is widely respected for his role in organising major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations, CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup, and is viewed by supporters as having strong institutional knowledge.
However, his candidacy faces resistance from some North African federations, including Egypt and Morocco, reflecting longstanding regional divisions within African football governance.
An alternative option is Gelson Fernandes, who currently serves as Deputy Director of Member Associations at FIFA.
The former Switzerland international, born in Cape Verde, has risen quickly in football administration since retiring in 2020 and has been closely involved in overseeing relations with national federations, particularly across Africa.
Fernandes is believed to have the backing of FIFA, with supporters pointing to his global experience and institutional links as assets.
