In a move that has sent shockwaves through Ghana's sports administration, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah has been suspended from his position as Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA). This decision comes on the back of mounting allegations and an ongoing police investigation into an alleged visa facilitation scheme linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The suspension was announced alongside the appointment of Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong as his acting replacement.
Professor Sarpong, an Associate Professor of Physical Education and Sports at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), assumes his new role at a critical time. He previously served on the NSA’s governing board before its dissolution by President Mahama on September 2, 2026. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to oversee the management of Ghana’s sporting facilities and steer the NSA through its current challenges.
The allegations that led to Mr. Ampofo Ankrah’s suspension involve the collection of about US$623,000 from prospective travellers seeking assistance with visa and travel arrangements for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These allegations prompted a police investigation, with Mr. Ampofo Ankrah and other NSA officials reportedly questioned by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). The Minority in Parliament had also called for his suspension or dismissal, citing exorbitant charges of up to US$8,000 for assistance with World Cup travel arrangements.
Despite the allegations, Mr. Ampofo Ankrah has denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that he had no knowledge of any arrangement involving the collection of money from prospective World Cup travellers. The NSA has also distanced itself from the allegations, stating that it neither established nor authorised an office at the stadium for collecting money or facilitating World Cup visas. The Authority clarified its relationship with TRIBE FEST, a FIFA-licensed partner, did not extend to collecting money for visa procurement.
The NSA’s governing board was dissolved by President Mahama on September 2, 2026, and Mr. Ampofo Ankrah was among the members of the dissolved board. However, he continued to oversee the Authority’s day-to-day administration until his suspension. With Prof. Sarpong at the helm, the NSA is expected to navigate its current challenges, including the police investigation into the alleged visa arrangement.
The Minority in Parliament’s call for Mr. Ampofo Ankrah’s suspension or dismissal followed a petition submitted to the CID on September 8, detailing the alleged collection of money from people seeking assistance to travel to the tournament. This development underscores the growing scrutiny over the management of Ghana’s sporting facilities and the operations of the NSA.
As the police investigation continues, Prof. Sarpong will be tasked with restoring public confidence in the NSA and ensuring the Authority’s operations are conducted with transparency and integrity. The suspension of Mr. Ampofo Ankrah and the appointment of Prof. Sarpong mark a significant shift in the NSA’s leadership, aimed at addressing the current controversies and steering the organisation towards a more accountable and transparent future.
Key points
- Yaw Ampofo Ankrah suspended as NSA Director-General amid allegations of visa facilitation scheme
- Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong appointed as acting replacement
- Investigation into alleged collection of US$623,000 for 2026 FIFA World Cup visa arrangements ongoing
