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By correspondent .
Issa Hayatou, the former President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has passed away at the age of 80. Hayatou, a native of Cameroon, died on Thursday in Paris, France.
Born on August 9, 1946, in Garoua, Cameroon, Hayatou was a significant figure in African football, known for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the sport.
His tenure as CAF President from 1988 to March 2017 was marked by substantial growth and increased global prominence for African football.
During his leadership, the Africa Cup of Nations was expanded, more African teams were included in the FIFA World Cup, and football infrastructure across the continent was significantly improved.
Hayatou also served as FIFA’s interim president from October 2015 to February 2016, guiding the organization through a tumultuous period with his characteristic calm and authority.
The football community has been deeply shocked by the news of his passing, with many paying tribute to his substantial contributions to the game.
A spokesperson for CAF said ,“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.”
Hayatou’s death marks the end of an era in African football.
His contributions have left an enduring legacy that will be remembered for years to come. Condolences have poured in from around the world, acknowledging his crucial role in transforming African football into a global powerhouse.
His loss will be deeply felt by all who knew and valued his work.
Meanwhile, the President of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has commiserated with the Cameronian football fraternity and the African football family,sequel to the death of Hayatou.
News Tap Gusau as saying that:
“The NFF and the entire Nigeria football family are terribly saddened by the death of Alhaji Issa Hayatou. He was a great and much-loved leader of African football and did his best to leave African football greater than he met it.
“Alhaji Hayatou was a man of strong character and integrity. We love him but God loves him more. We pray that Almighty Allah will grant him eternal rest and also grant the Cameronian, nay African football family the fortitude to bear the loss.”
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
