Amaju Melvin Pinnick has made a significant comeback to the forefront of African football administration following his appointment as Special Adviser to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe.
The announcement was made during a live-streamed press conference on YouTube, where Motsepe warmly welcomed the former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president back into the CAF fold.
This appointment signals a renewed mandate for Pinnick, whose profile on the international football scene had dipped in recent years—particularly after his unsuccessful bid to retain his seat on the FIFA Council.
Nonetheless, his deep-rooted connections, vast experience, and influential legacy within African football have seen him trusted once again with a vital role.
Motsepe, speaking at the press conference, said with a chuckle, “I did not know Amaju is so loved in CAF,” reflecting the positive sentiment and widespread respect Pinnick continues to command across the continent.
He further revealed that Pinnick would be attending all CAF executive meetings in his advisory role, underscoring the strategic importance of his presence and insights.
Previously, Pinnick served as CAF First Vice President during Ahmad Ahmad’s presidency and played a pivotal role in rallying support for Motsepe’s rise to the top seat.
His return is widely viewed as both a recognition of his past contributions and a tactical step to fortify CAF’s leadership with experienced voices.
This development marks not just a professional comeback for Pinnick but a renewed opportunity to shape African football at the highest level, reinforcing his enduring relevance in the sport’s administration.
