Nana Boateng Gyimah denies $611,000 World Cup visa fraud allegations

Yaw Ampofo Ankrah expresses confidence in exoneration over visa scandal

Suspended National Sports Authority (NSA) Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah has declared his "200% confidence" that he will be exonerated following an investigation into an alleged World Cup visa scandal. President John Dramani Mahama suspended Ankrah after reports emerged involving a failed travel arrangement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which reportedly collected over US$623,000 from applicants. Ankrah has urged the public to let the official investigation proceed without speculation or misinformation. The controversy stems from allegations that approximately US$623,000 was collected to facilitate visas for fans and stakeholders traveling for the tournament. However, despite the significant financial contributions, only five out of nearly 90 applicants were reportedly successful in securing their travel documents. In the wake of these allegations and the subsequent suspension of the Director-General, Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong has been appointed as the acting head of the NSA to ensure administrative continuity during the probe. Speaking on the ongoing investigation, Ankrah emphasized the importance of factual verification in reporting and maintained his innocence regarding any wrongdoing. He stated that he is certain that once the Presidency concludes its review of the facts, his name will be cleared. Ankrah noted that he remains cooperative with the process and is confident that the truth behind the visa facilitation process will vindicate his leadership at the sports authority. The outcome of this investigation is highly anticipated within the Ghanaian sports community, as it touches on issues of transparency and governance within the National Sports Authority. While Professor Sarpong oversees current operations, the findings from the investigation directed by the Presidency will determine Ankrah's future in the role. The case highlights the ongoing challenges in managing international tournament logistics and the government's stated commitment to investigating financial irregularities in public institutions.