By Abiola Olawale
The African football community has been thrown into a mourning state following the passing of a former President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Issa Hayatou.
Hayatou was said to have passed away on Thursday in Paris.
This was contained in a press statement issued by CAF on Thursday.
The statement reads in part: “We have lost a great leader, a man who dedicated his life to the growth of football in Africa.
“His legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward in our mission to develop the sport on the continent.”
Born on August 9, 1946, in Garoua, Cameroon, Hayatou was a former footballer and one of the most influential sports administrators in Africa.
He served as CAF President from 1988 to 2017, a period marked by significant growth and global recognition for African football.
During his tenure, he oversaw the expansion of the Africa Cup of Nations, increased African representation at the FIFA World Cup, and strengthened football infrastructure across the continent.
Hayatou also served as interim FIFA President from 2015 to 2016, leading the organization through a turbulent period with his characteristic calm and authority.
His leadership brought African football into the global spotlight, paving the way for future generations of African footballers and administrators.
