A method for cobalt-catalyzed, aminoquinoline-and picolinamide-directed C(sp(2))-H bond alkenylation by alkynes was developed. The method shows excellent functional-group tolerance and both internal and terminal alkynes are competent substrates for the coupling. The reaction employs a Co(OAc)(2)center dot 4H(2)O catalyst, Mn(OAc)(2) co-catalyst, and oxygen (from air) as a terminal oxidant.