Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, the former Director-General of Ghana's National Sports Authority (NSA), has spoken out after being dismissed from his position on October 1. In a brief Facebook post, Ankrah called for calm and expressed confidence in the presidency, but did not directly address the allegations surrounding his departure. His dismissal is linked to controversy over an alleged 2026 FIFA World Cup visa facilitation scheme.
The alleged visa scheme reportedly generated over $600,000, with some individuals paying up to $8,000 each for the service. The NSA has denied authorizing the scheme and collecting money through it. A police investigation into the allegations is ongoing. Ankrah's post did not reference the allegations or his exit circumstances, instead urging the public to remain composed and trust in the presidency.
In his Facebook message, Ankrah wrote, "The President is always right. There is no cause for alarm. Time will always tell. Let's remain calm and keep pushing for the RESET." This statement offers no further clarification on his exit or potential next steps. The police investigation into the alleged scheme remains ongoing, and the transition in leadership at the NSA is expected to draw continued public scrutiny.
Ankrah's dismissal represents a significant shift in leadership at the NSA, which oversees sports infrastructure and facilities across Ghana. He has been replaced by Prof. Emmanuel Osei Sarpong, Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW). The NSA's denial of involvement in the alleged scheme and the ongoing investigation will likely continue to be a subject of public interest.
The allegations against Ankrah and others do not, as yet, establish criminal liability. However, the controversy has led to significant attention and scrutiny. Another individual, Kailani Ibrahim Kpa, known as Powder Man, has also responded to visa and travel fraud allegations on social media, stating he voluntarily reported to the police and insisting the money was given to agents, not kept by him.
Yaw Ampofo Ankrah is a renowned sports journalist who had been serving as the Director-General of the NSA. His replacement, Prof. Emmanuel Osei Sarpong, takes over at a critical time for the organization. The University of Education, Winneba's Prof. Sarpong has been tasked with leading the NSA amid these challenges and potentially implementing changes to address the allegations and restore public trust.
The situation surrounding Yaw Ampofo Ankrah's dismissal and the alleged visa scheme will continue to be monitored as the police investigation unfolds. The NSA's role in Ghana's sports sector and the impact of the controversy on its operations and reputation will be significant factors to watch in the coming weeks and months.
Key points
- Yaw Ampofo Ankrah dismissed as NSA Director-General amid 2026 World Cup visa scheme allegations
- Alleged visa scheme generated over $600,000, with NSA denying authorization or involvement
- Police investigation into allegations remains ongoing, with Ankrah's replacement Prof. Emmanuel Osei Sarpong taking over at the NSA
