Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong has been appointed as the Acting Director-General of Ghana's National Sports Authority (NSA). This appointment comes after the suspension of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, the former Director-General. Prof. Sarpong, an Associate Professor of Physical Education and Sports at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), brings extensive experience in sports science, education, and sports administration to the position. His academic background is in exercise and sports science, with expertise spanning physical activity, sports performance, and athlete development.
Prof. Sarpong's appointment revives a name previously associated with the NSA Director-General position. In January 2025, he was identified as one of the figures being considered for the role amid calls from Ghana's sporting community for a technically experienced sports professional to lead the Authority. At the time, sections of the sporting community sought a leader with the expertise to manage Ghana's sports facilities and administration effectively. Prof. Sarpong previously served as a lecturer and sports administrator at UEW and has held several national sports-related roles.
The new Acting Director-General currently serves as Dean of Student Affairs at UEW, according to the National Teaching Council. His experience in education and sports administration makes him well-suited to take charge of the NSA at a time of significant scrutiny. The Authority has faced questions over the management of Ghana's sports facilities and administration. Prof. Sarpong's appointment aims to bring stability and technical expertise to the organization.
The suspension of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, the former NSA Director-General, followed allegations surrounding a World Cup visa facilitation scheme. The NSA denied authorizing any such scheme, but calls for Ankrah's removal grew amid investigations. Prof. Sarpong's appointment is expected to help restore confidence in the Authority's leadership and operations. His experience as a member of the NSA's 2025–2026 Governing Board, which was dissolved in September, also brings valuable insight to his new role.
Prof. Sarpong's background in sports science and education will likely be an asset in addressing the challenges facing the NSA. His expertise in physical activity, sports performance, and athlete development can inform policies and strategies to improve Ghana's sports sector. As Acting Director-General, Prof. Sarpong will oversee the Authority's operations and work to restore trust in its leadership.
The appointment of Prof. Sarpong has been welcomed by some sections of Ghana's sporting community, who see him as a technically experienced professional capable of leading the NSA effectively. His experience in sports administration and education will be crucial in addressing the Authority's challenges. Prof. Sarpong's tenure as Acting Director-General is expected to bring stability and technical expertise to the NSA.
The NSA plays a critical role in managing Ghana's sports facilities and administration. With Prof. Sarpong at the helm, the Authority is expected to prioritize transparency and accountability in its operations. His appointment marks a new chapter for the NSA, and his expertise will be essential in driving the organization's success.
Key points
- Prof Osei Sarpong brings extensive experience in sports science, education, and sports administration to the NSA.
- His appointment aims to restore confidence in the Authority's leadership and operations.
- Prof. Sarpong's expertise will inform policies and strategies to improve Ghana's sports sector.
