NSA DG Yaw Ampofo Ankrah suspended over alleged involvement in World Cup visa scandal

National Sports Authority (NSA) Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah has been suspended by President John Dramani Mahama amid allegations of involvement in a visa scandal related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The controversy erupted after it was reported that approximately US$623,000 was received from prospective travelers seeking assistance with visa and travel arrangements for the tournament.

Some applicants reportedly paid up to US$8,000 for these services. The Ghana Police Service's Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is investigating the matter, having questioned Ampofo Ankrah and others connected to the allegations. The NSA has denied any authorization for visa facilitation services or the collection of funds from the public.

The Minority in Parliament has called for Ampofo Ankrah's removal while the investigation proceeds. The NSA denies any involvement in the visa facilitation scheme and states that its legal team is cooperating with the police. The suspension follows President Mahama's decision to dissolve the NSA's governing board, with a new board set to be established.

In the meantime, Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong has been appointed as the NSA's Acting Director-General. The 2026 World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.