Akufo-Addo sacks National Sports Authority Director General.

Dodzie Numekevor, Former NSA Director General.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has sacked the Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dodzie Numekevor, effective immediately.

This decision comes after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) withdrew the Baba Yara Sports Stadium's license to host international matches due to its poor condition.

The stadium's maintenance issues have been a subject of concern, with CAF recommending reconstruction of the pitch and criticizing the state of other stadiums in Accra and Cape Coast.

In fact, Ghana's poor maintenance culture has been highlighted by Member of Parliament Benson Baba Tongo, who noted that the country's sports infrastructure, including the Accra Sports Stadium and the Sekondi Sports Stadium, have been left in a deplorable state.

Prior to his dismissal, Numekevor had closed down the Baba Yara, Accra, and Cape Coast stadia for maintenance in response to growing concerns about the facilities. However, this move was too little, too late, as CAF had already taken action.

The Ghana Football Association was directed to find an alternative venue outside Ghana to host Sudan on matchday 3 in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, with Togo being considered as an option.

President Akufo-Addo's decision to sack Numekevor reflects his dissatisfaction with the state of sports infrastructure under the NSA's leadership.

The Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif through his chief director, had also queried Numekevor, demanding that he explain why he should not be penalized for leading an authority that has embarrassed the office of the president and the country at large.

Numekevor's dismissal may be a step towards addressing Ghana's sports infrastructure challenges, but it will require sustained effort and commitment to improve the country's maintenance culture.

As highlighted by researchers, poor maintenance practices have severe effects on the full usage of public stadia, and it is essential to adopt a holistic approach to maintenance management.

Also Read: GFA to propose UG & Accra Sports Stadium to CAF for approval.

Source: HR Forum News