Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong has been appointed as the Acting Director-General of Ghana's National Sports Authority (NSA). This appointment comes after Yaw Ampofo Ankrah was suspended from his position. Prof. Sarpong, an Associate Professor of Physical Education and Sports at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), brings a wealth of experience in sports science, physical education, athlete development, and sports administration to the role.
Prof. Sarpong's background includes serving as a lecturer and sports administrator at UEW, where he has contributed significantly to Ghana's sports sector. Before his appointment as Acting Director-General, he was a member of the NSA Governing Board and Chairman of its Technical Committee. Additionally, he has served as Ghana's National Coordinator for School Sports and as a member of the Games and Technical Committee, further solidifying his involvement in national sports development and administration.
The newly appointed Acting Director-General has a strong academic foundation in exercise and sports science, with a focus on physical activity, sports performance, and athlete development. Currently, he serves as the Dean of Student Affairs at UEW. His expertise and experience make him well-suited to lead the NSA, especially during a time when Ghana's sports administration and public sports facilities are under considerable scrutiny.
Prof. Sarpong's appointment to the NSA is not new, as his name was previously linked to the Director-General position in January 2025. At that time, there were calls from the Ghanaian sporting community for a technically experienced sports professional to lead the Authority. His familiarity with the NSA, having been a member of its 2025-2026 Governing Board before it was dissolved in September, will likely aid in his transition to the role.
The suspension of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, the former Director-General, led to Prof. Sarpong's appointment. Ankrah's tenure faced public scrutiny amid investigations into allegations of a World Cup visa facilitation scheme, which the NSA has denied authorizing. As a result, Prof. Sarpong's leadership is expected to bring renewed attention to the administration of Ghana's sports facilities, school sports development, athlete welfare, and the overall management of the NSA.
With his diverse background in academia, sports science, and administration, Prof. Sarpong is poised to address the challenges confronting Ghana's sports sector. His experience will be crucial in navigating the complexities of the Authority and implementing effective strategies for growth and development. As Acting Director-General, he will be expected to make significant contributions to the NSA's operations and the broader sports landscape in Ghana.
Prof. Sarpong's assumption of office marks a new chapter for the NSA, with expectations for enhanced sports administration and development. His leadership will be closely watched by stakeholders in Ghana's sports sector, who anticipate positive changes under his guidance. Key to his success will be his ability to leverage his expertise and experience to drive progress and address the challenges facing the Authority.
Key points
- Prof. Emmanuel Sarpong's appointment as Acting Director-General of the NSA brings a sports professional with extensive experience in sports science, physical education, and administration to the role.
- His appointment follows the suspension of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah amid public scrutiny and allegations of a World Cup visa facilitation scheme.
- Prof. Sarpong's leadership is expected to focus on the administration of Ghana's sports facilities, school sports development, athlete welfare, and the overall management of the NSA.
