The African football fraternity has been thrown into mourning following the death of the former CAF president, Issa Hayatou who died on Tuesday 8th August in Paris.
Hayatou who would have been 78 years on August 9th will be best remembered for playing an instrumental role in the evolution of football in Africa.
A Legacy of Growth and Development
Issa Hayatou was born on August 9, 1946, in Garoua, Cameroon, and he will be remembered as one of the most influential African sports administrators whose impact was profoundly felt in African football.
He was CAF president between 1988 and 2017 with considerable achievements that included growth, visibility and the advancement of football facilities in Africa.
During his tenure, the density of the Africa Cup of Nations grew, and more African teams joined the FIFA World Cup, thus raising the profile of football in Africa.
Leadership Beyond CAF
It was not only CAF that Issa Hayatou impacted. He was also the interim President of FIFA from October 2015 to February 2016 which was an essential period during which he helped to steady the ship amidst a storm.
These efforts make him leave a remarkable mark in the improvement and expansion of African football structures.
Controversies and Challenges
However, his tenure was characterized by achievements but also scandals of corruption.
However, his achievements in the development of football in Africa cannot be undermined and he remains a significant icon in football history in Africa.
Tributes and Condolences
Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau also offered his condolences to the people and the football-loving populace of Cameroon.
Gusau noted: “Alhaji Hayatou was a man of principle and honour, a leader and a distinguished gentleman. ”“We lose him but the Lord loves him more, may the Almighty Allah rest his soul and may we draw strength from God to cope with the loss. ”
The death of Issa Hayatou means an era has come to an end in African football, but his work will live on for ever.
