AUSC explains Siasia’s appointment as West Africa ambassador

The African Union Sports Council(AUSC ),has explained why it appointed former Super Eagles head coach Samson Siasia as its ambassador for region 2 West Africa .

The council’s Secretary-General, Mustpha Michael, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja while presenting Siasia’s appointment letter.

Michael said the decision was driven by Siasia’s pedigree as a former international, his experience from global competitions around the year 2000, and his ongoing work as a coach and academy owner.

He said Siasia would serve as the public face of all AUSC activities in the 15 West African countries under Region Two.

Michael added that the former Eagles coach would play a key role at the West Africa Games scheduled for June in The Gambia, including the official opening of the event.

According to him, Siasia will also lead regional charity initiatives aimed at addressing country-specific social challenges, particularly youth-related issues, with funds raised deployed locally.

“He will help us engage presidents and ministers across the region. They know him more than they know me, and that influence will help us move faster,” Michael said.

He expressed confidence in Siasia’s capacity, noting that the appointment would help push West Africa sports development to a higher level.

In his acceptance speech, Siasia thanked the council for the opportunity, describing the role as a fresh start after years away from the system.

“I have given a lot to Nigeria. This appointment has come at the right time, and I’m grabbing it with both hands,” he said.

Siasia pledged to work with the council to develop policies that would help young people grow through sports across the region.

Also presented with an appointment letter was Segun Makun, named AUSC’s marketing and business development lead.

Makun described the role as a major challenge, citing his experience in sports business, technology, and international exposure, including work around NBA events in the United States.

He said working alongside Siasia would make the task easier and boost efforts to position West Africa as one of the continent’s strongest sports regions.