Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong has returned to the National Sports Authority (NSA) in a new capacity after being appointed Acting Director-General of the state sports agency.
His appointment follows the removal of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, whose tenure as Director-General ended amid scrutiny surrounding an alleged visa facilitation arrangement linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Professor Sarpong is an academic and sports administrator with a background in physical education, sports science and higher education leadership.
He is also familiar with the operations of the NSA, having previously served on the Authority’s Governing Board as a representative of persons in sports development.
The Governing Board was dissolved by President John Dramani Mahama in September 2026 as part of changes to the leadership structure of the Authority.
Sarpong’s appointment comes at a time when the NSA is under increased public scrutiny over the management and maintenance of sporting facilities, as well as broader concerns about the administration and development of sports in Ghana.
In his new role, he will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Authority and work with stakeholders across the sports sector on the management of the country’s sporting infrastructure.
The NSA is responsible for the development, management and maintenance of sports facilities and infrastructure, while also supporting the organisation and promotion of sporting activities across the country.
Professor Sarpong’s experience in sports science and education is expected to shape his approach as he assumes responsibility for the administration of the Authority.
His appointment also comes against the backdrop of investigations into an alleged visa facilitation arrangement connected to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The NSA has denied authorising any arrangement under which individuals were required to pay money for visa or travel assistance for the tournament. The Authority has also said its legal team is cooperating with investigations into the matter.
Professor Sarpong now takes charge of the NSA at a period of heightened public attention on the management of Ghana’s sporting facilities and the broader direction of the country’s sports sector.
