The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has requested comprehensive employment and employee data from Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), following reports that the NSA Board directed him to revoke the appointment of 17 staff members allegedly recruited without due process.

The issue, which has created tension between management and the board, was addressed during a meeting on February 23, 2026.

Ministry officials clarified that the minister’s request focused on employment data, despite earlier media reports suggesting a revocation directive.

The controversy dates back to February 6, when it emerged that several appointments, including a newly created Chief Operations Officer (COO) role, bypassed required clearance from the Public Services Commission and Ministry of Finance.

Some of the newly recruited staff were reportedly granted authority above existing Deputy Director Generals, further escalating concerns.

The COO has been given until February 26 to exit office.

Longstanding staff have also been affected.

Former Head of Security, Thomas Kumordzi, was reassigned to the Borteyman Sports Complex, which is outside NSA’s direct control, but was redirected back.

Several staff allege they have been sidelined, with key operational decisions largely handled by the new recruits.

Under Ghana’s public sector regulations, all recruitment requires public advertisement, panel interviews, and clearance from relevant authorities, with salaries processed through the Controller and Accountant General.

Current payment mechanisms for the new staff remain unclear, with reports indicating Finance Ministry clearance may be missing.

The February 23 meeting concluded with Mr Ankrah instructed to comply with the Board’s directive.

The NSA currently employs approximately 121 staff at its headquarters.

Meanwhile, the public address system at the national stadium in Accra remains non-functional, requiring the authority to hire external equipment during matches.

The developments highlight ongoing governance and compliance challenges within Ghana’s premier sports authority, with implications for transparency, staff management, and operational effectiveness.