Former National Sports Authority (NSA) Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah has expressed disappointment over his suspension by President John Dramani Mahama but says he remains calm as investigations continue into an alleged visa facilitation arrangement linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mr Ampofo Ankrah was suspended on Thursday, October 1, 2026, following allegations concerning the handling of visa applications and travel arrangements for individuals seeking to attend the global football tournament.
The controversy centres on claims that approximately 623,000 United States dollars was received from prospective travellers seeking assistance with visa applications and travel arrangements for the competition.
Speaking after his suspension, Mr Ampofo Ankrah said he was disappointed that he had not been given an opportunity to explain his side of the matter before the decision was taken.
“I’m still calm, a bit disappointed,” he said.
“I’m not one to rant and rage. I’m disappointed that I’ve not been heard. It is disappointing that we haven’t been able to have a discussion as to exactly what the situation is.”
The former NSA Director-General explained that his attention before the suspension had been focused on preparing sports facilities across the country, particularly the Accra Sports Stadium, for upcoming national assignments.
He said preparations for the stadium and other facilities were important as the Black Stars and other national teams prepared for their respective engagements.
“I’ve been focused on preparing the facility, Accra Sports Stadium, and other areas around the National Sports Authority to get ready for the Black Stars and other national assignments,” he added.
His suspension comes at a time when the National Sports Authority is facing increased scrutiny over its responsibilities and involvement in arrangements associated with Ghana’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mr Ampofo Ankrah has denied wrongdoing and maintained that he would have preferred an opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the visa arrangements before the suspension was imposed.
The allegations have attracted attention because of the financial amounts involved and the questions surrounding the handling of travel and visa facilitation for prospective supporters and other individuals hoping to attend the tournament.
However, the claims remain subject to investigation, and the allegations should not be treated as proof of criminal wrongdoing.
Following the suspension, Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong was appointed Acting Director-General of the National Sports Authority to oversee the institution while the matter is examined.
Professor Sarpong, an Associate Professor of Physical Education and Sports at the University of Education, Winneba, is expected to supervise the Authority’s operations during the period.
The development has placed the NSA’s administration under the spotlight as authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged visa facilitation arrangement.
For Mr Ampofo Ankrah, the immediate concern remains his suspension and his expressed disappointment that he was not given an opportunity to present his explanation before the decision was made.
He has maintained a calm public posture while the investigation continues, with further developments expected as the relevant authorities examine the allegations.
