Suspended National Sports Authority (NSA) Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah has clarified that he has not been sacked, but rather suspended pending an investigation. According to Ampofo Ankrah, Sports Minister Kofi Adams informed him of the suspension, which is linked to allegations surrounding a purported World Cup visa facilitation scheme. Ampofo Ankrah has denied any wrongdoing.
The suspension comes amid an investigation into the alleged visa facilitation scheme linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The scheme allegedly involved charging individuals money for assistance with visas and travel arrangements. The minority in Parliament had called for Ampofo Ankrah's suspension or dismissal while investigations into the allegations continued. They claimed over $600,000 was collected through the arrangement, with some applicants charged up to $8,000.
Ampofo Ankrah stated that he was disappointed by the development but would respect the investigation process. He added that he had not been given a listening ear on the situation despite being focused on getting work done. Ampofo Ankrah was preparing the facility and other areas around the National Sports Authority for the Black Stars and other international assignments.
Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong has been appointed Acting Director-General of the NSA while the CID investigation continues. The NSA has denied authorizing any visa facilitation or money-collection scheme connected to the World Cup. In September, the Authority said its legal team was cooperating with the police investigation.
Ampofo Ankrah's suspension follows a directive issued on October 1, 2026, by President John Dramani Mahama, stating that the suspension would remain in place pending the completion of the CID investigation. Ampofo Ankrah expressed his calmness despite the situation, adding that he welcomes the investigation.
The allegations against Ampofo Ankrah and the NSA have not been established as fact. The CID investigation aims to uncover the truth behind the alleged visa facilitation scheme. Ampofo Ankrah's clarification comes after reports of his sacking circulated in the media space.
Ampofo Ankrah's situation has garnered significant attention in Ghana's sports sector. The development has raised questions about the governance and management of sports in the country. Key stakeholders, including the Ghana Football Association and sports fans, are watching the situation closely.
Key points
- Yaw Ampofo Ankrah has been suspended as NSA Director-General pending a CID investigation into an alleged World Cup visa facilitation scheme.
- Ampofo Ankrah has denied any wrongdoing and clarified that he has not been sacked.
- Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong has been appointed Acting Director-General of the NSA.
