Fresh leadership controversy at NSA amid African Athletics Championship backlash
Fresh controversy has emerged at the National Sports Authority following growing criticism over the hosting of the recent African Athletics Championships in Accra, with allegations of internal administrative dysfunction, unpaid salaries and leadership disputes now surfacing.
According to claims circulating within sports and media circles, the disappointing organisation and logistical setbacks that overshadowed parts of the continental athletics competition may have stemmed not only from financial constraints but also from deep-rooted administrative challenges within the National Sports Authority.
The 24th African Athletics Championships, hosted at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium in Legon, attracted criticism from athletes, journalists and officials over transportation delays, accreditation challenges, poor communication systems, scheduling inconsistencies and inadequate media working conditions.
Funding Constraints
Sources claim government’s alleged reluctance to release adequate funding for the championship significantly affected preparations and operational execution.
However, beyond financial concerns, insiders suggest tensions within the leadership structure of the NSA may also have contributed to the challenges witnessed during the event.
Appointment Controversy Resurfaces
The controversy reportedly dates back to appointments made after the 2024 general elections.
According to the claims, sports administrator Veronica Commey was widely tipped to become Director-General of the NSA following the electoral victory of the governing party.
However, reports allege that influential politician and former Sports Minister used his influence to secure the appointment of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, his brother as the substantive head of the Authority.
Following the appointment, Gideon Hammond and Veronica Commey were also named as deputies within the Authority’s leadership structure.
Salary And Qualification Allegations
The latest claims further allege that for more than a year, the leadership of the NSA has not been placed on official government salaries because documentation required by the Public Services Commission has allegedly not been submitted.
According to the allegations, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah was directed to compile and submit the academic and professional credentials of himself and his deputies to facilitate interviews and formal salary placement processes.
However, sources claim this process has stalled for months.
The allegations further suggest that none of the three appointees has received salaries during the period.
Critics further allege that the delay may be linked to concerns over whether the NSA boss possesses the required qualifications for the position, although no official statement has been issued to confirm or deny the claims.
Concerns Over NSA Management Style
Additional accusations have also emerged regarding the management structure within the Authority.
Critics claim the NSA has increasingly operated as a “one-man show,” with allegations that deputy officials are often sidelined in key decision-making processes concerning the management of sports administration in the country.
The controversy has intensified calls from sections of the sports community for government intervention to address the growing concerns surrounding the leadership and operational efficiency of the NSA.
Pressure Mounts On Sports Administration
The latest development comes at a time when the sports sector is already under heavy scrutiny following recent controversies surrounding the 2023 African Games expenditure, the organisation of the African Athletics Championships and broader concerns about sports infrastructure and administration.
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