Mortal remains of Issa Hayatou arrives in Cameroon for final burial

The remains of former Confederation of African Football (CAF) president, Issa Hayatou, have arrived in Cameroon, where he will be laid to rest.

Hayatou, who briefly served as interim FIFA president during its 2015 corruption crisis, passed away on Thursday, August 8, 2024, in Paris.

A special reception and prayer service took place at Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport, drawing a large crowd of mourners who came to honor the legacy of the former African football leader.

Notable figures in the football community, including Hayatou’s successor Ahmad Ahmad and his close friend Constant Omari, were in attendance.

Current CAF boss, Patrice Motsepe was also in attendance.

Samuel Eto’o, the current president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), also paid his respects, having often praised Hayatou’s contributions to African football.

Hayatou’s leadership spanned nearly three decades, leaving a lasting impact on the sport across the continent.