Lamin Kaba Bajo Makes History as FIFA Committee Chair

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

Doha Ceremony Marks Landmark Achievement

President of The Gambia Football Federation (GFF), Lamin Kaba Bajo, has been officially inaugurated as the Chairperson of FIFA’s Grassroots and Amateur Football Committee. The ceremony, presided over by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, took place in Doha, Qatar, on December 16, 2025, marking a proud milestone for The Gambia.

A First for The Gambia

Bajo’s appointment—made just over two months earlier—represents the first time a Gambian has been named Chairperson of a FIFA Standing Committee, although Gambians have previously served as committee members. His term runs from 2025 to 2029, underscoring FIFA’s trust in his leadership and experience.

Global Football Role and Responsibilities

In addition to leading The Gambia’s football administration, Bajo currently serves as:

• President of WAFU Zone A
• Member of the Players’ Status Chamber of the FIFA Football Tribunal, where he has served since 2021

The Players’ Status Chamber oversees global compliance with regulations on the status and transfer of players, while ensuring fair competition structures across FIFA tournaments.

Championing Grassroots Development

Grassroots and amateur football remain essential pillars of global football development. Bajo’s appointment is seen as particularly significant given his role in steering what many describe as the Golden Era of Gambian football, during which the country has made historic strides on the African and global stage.

First Meeting and High-Level Participation

Following his inauguration, Bajo chaired his first Committee meeting. It was attended by FIFA legends and senior officials including:

• Arsène Wenger
• Steven Martens
• Natascia Prieto
• Bernd Neuendorf, President of the German Football Federation and FIFA Council Delegate
• Michael Ricketts, Vice Chairperson and President of the Jamaican Football Federation

Gambia’s Growing Influence in FIFA

The ceremony also highlighted another Gambian achievement. Maimuna Kanteh, GFF Executive Committee member, was inaugurated into the FIFA Youth Girls’ Competitions Committee. She will work alongside Chairperson Anya James of The Bahamas and Deputy Chairperson Naziah Ali of Fiji.

Profile: Lamin Kaba Bajo

Lamin Kaba Bajo is a seasoned football administrator and respected regional leader whose influence extends beyond national football governance. As President of the GFF and WAFU Zone A, he has contributed significantly to the development and professionalization of football structures in The Gambia and West Africa. His new global leadership position reinforces The Gambia’s rising stature in world football administration.

This historic appointment not only honors Bajo’s dedication but also reflects The Gambia’s growing voice in international football affairs.