Nigerian Senator and African Pillar of Sports, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has commiserated with football lovers across Africa over the demise of the former CAF president. Alhaji Issa Hayatou who passed on at the age of 78.
Lamenting the passing of the African football legend on Thursday, Kalu acknowledged the uncommon leadership skills of the late administrator , adding that sports enthusiasts will greatly miss Hayatou
The former Governor, who is passionate about sports, stressed that the renowned football administrator was a household name in the sports globally having gone beyond heading the CAF as its president for 27 years to serving as Acting President of football’s world-ruling body FIFA for 4 months and 18 days (8th October 2015 – 26 February 2016) following the suspension of Sepp Blatter and prior to the election of Gianni Infantino.
He said, ” the death of the former CAF president is saddening. My personal relationship with him deepened when Enyimba football club under my supervision as Governor won the CAF champions league back to back and CAF Super Cup back to back. He was very instrumental towards deepening football in Africa.
“He was known for his uncommon skills, which earned his numerous honours and awards.
“The late Hayatou was indeed a notable figure in the sports industry.
“He will be sorely missed by family, friends, associates and football lovers across African region and beyond.
The Nigerian Senator commiserated with the government and people of Cameroun and also prayed to God for the repose of Hayatou’s soul.
