Prof Emmanuel Osei Sarpong appointed Acting NSA Director-General

Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong

Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong has been appointed Acting Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA) following the suspension of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah.

Mr Ampofo Ankrah was suspended on Thursday, 1 October, amid allegations of involvement in a visa facilitation scheme linked to Ghana's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Prof Sarpong, an Associate Professor of Physical Education and Sports at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), takes charge of the NSA as the Authority faces increased scrutiny over the management of sports facilities and the administration of Ghanaian sports.

He brings extensive experience in sports science, education and sports administration to the role.

Prof Sarpong has previously worked as a lecturer and sports administrator at UEW and has held several national sports-related positions.

He was also a member of the NSA's 2025–26 Governing Board before President John Dramani Mahama dissolved the board in September.

His appointment brings back a name that had previously been linked with the NSA's top position. In January 2025, reports identified Prof Sarpong as one of the candidates being considered for the Director-General role amid calls from sections of Ghana's sporting community for a technically experienced professional to lead the Authority.

Prof Sarpong's academic background is in exercise and sports science, with expertise in physical activity, sports performance and athlete development.

He currently serves as Dean of Student Affairs at UEW, according to the National Teaching Council.

His appointment follows growing scrutiny of the NSA after allegations emerged surrounding a World Cup visa facilitation scheme.

The NSA has previously denied authorising any such scheme.

The Authority will now be led by Prof Sarpong while investigations into the allegations continue.