Anthony Baffoe pays tribute to late CAF president Issa Hayatou

Retired Ghanaian footballer Anthony Baffoe has expressed his condolences following the passing of former CAF President Issa Hayatou.

In a heartfelt post on X, Baffoe conveyed his sympathy and respect for the late Cameroonian football administrator.

“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un,” he wrote, meaning “Surely we belong to Allah and to Him shall we return.” He added, “My condolences and sympathies to the entire family. Rest well Alhadji Issa Hayatou.”

Issa Hayatou passed away at the age of 78 on Thursday, August 8, in Paris after a prolonged illness. His death follows earlier rumors of his passing in March, which he managed to overcome. However, his final battle with illness proved insurmountable.

Hayatou’s legacy is marked by his transformative leadership of CAF from 1988 to 2017, a tenure that significantly advanced African football.

Despite an unsuccessful bid for FIFA presidency in 2002, his contributions to football and sports administration were profound. Hayatou also served as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and was appointed President of the National Football Academy in Cameroon by President Paul Biya in 2017.

The football community remembers Hayatou for his dedicated service and enduring impact on the sport.