Yaw Ampofo Ankrah has been removed from his position as Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), with Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong appointed to act in the role.
Reports indicate that President John Dramani Mahama directed Mr Ankrah to step aside from his duties with immediate effect. The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny of the management of Ghana’s sporting facilities and an ongoing police investigation into allegations surrounding an alleged visa facilitation arrangement linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to a letter from the Presidency, Mr Ankrah’s suspension is an administrative measure and does not constitute a finding of wrongdoing. He is to remain suspended pending the completion of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) investigation.
The NSA has previously denied authorising any visa facilitation or money-collection scheme connected to the World Cup and said its legal team was cooperating with the police investigation.
Prof. Sarpong Takes Over
Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong, an Associate Professor of Exercise and Sports Science at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), will oversee the NSA on an acting basis.
Prof. Sarpong previously served on the NSA Governing Board before President Mahama dissolved the board on September 2, 2026.
Mr Ankrah’s departure also follows concerns over the condition and management of major sporting facilities, including the Accra Sports Stadium and Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
The latest leadership change leaves Prof. Sarpong in charge of the NSA as investigations into the allegations continue.
