The African Union Sports Council (AUSC) on Thursday in Abuja unveiled former Super Eagles striker Samson Siasia as its Ambassador.

The ceremony, held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, was attended by top sports administrators and stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, the Secretary General of the Council, Mustapha Michael, described Siasia’s appointment as a widely accepted decision that did not face any opposition from members of the organisation. He noted that with the former U-20 and U-23 national team coach on board, the Council is ready to “hit the ground running” in advancing its programmes.

In his response, Siasia—popularly referred to by admirers as a World Cup coach—expressed appreciation to the African Union Sports Council for the honour. He pledged to work closely with stakeholders to move the AUSC Region 2 West Africa forward.

The former Super Eagles coach said the new role presents an opportunity for him to relaunch himself after being away from active football engagement for some time.

At the same event, former Nigerian tennis star Segun Maku was appointed as the Marketing and Business Development Consultant of the Council.

Maku described the assignment as a demanding challenge that would test his years of experience in sports marketing and administration.