Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has expressed his frustration with the National Sports Authority (NSA) for neglecting their duties by renting out the Baba Yara Stadium just weeks before Ghana’s crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
In July, the stadium was leased for a five-day church event hosted by the ‘Kumuyi’ ministry, which left the pitch in poor condition ahead of Ghana’s match against Angola.
The Black Stars suffered a 1-0 defeat to Angola in that qualifier, and the poor state of the pitch was heavily criticized. Following the match, CAF revoked the stadium’s license to host international games, raising the possibility that Ghana may be forced to play their next home fixture abroad.
Ussif did not hold back in his criticism of the NSA’s decision. “Of course, [the NSA failed in its duty] by its singular decision to rent the Kumasi Stadium for that program just before the Angola match,” he said.
Renting out national stadiums has become the NSA’s primary revenue stream, but the practice has backfired as it often leaves facilities in poor condition, jeopardizing their ability to host major sporting events.
In response to the situation, the Sports Ministry has issued a statement, instructing the NSA to “take steps to resolve issues with the pitch” at the Baba Yara Stadium. The incident underscores the need for better stadium management practices, especially ahead of important international fixtures.
