National Sports Authority rents Accra Sports Stadium for religious event

The National Sports Authority (NSA) has come under scrutiny following its decision to rent the Accra Sports Stadium to a church group for an upcoming religious gathering. This move has triggered widespread concern among sports enthusiasts and football stakeholders regarding the potential degradation of the playing surface. The timing of the event is particularly sensitive, as the stadium is scheduled to host a crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier between Ghana and Somalia next month.

Reports and social media footage have emerged showing preparations for the church programme already underway on the field. This visual evidence has amplified fears that the heavy equipment and high foot traffic associated with such large-scale gatherings could compromise the turf’s quality. Historically, the NSA has faced criticism for prioritising non-sporting, revenue-generating activities over the maintenance of national sporting infrastructure, which has occasionally resulted in pitches being declared unfit for international matches by CAF inspectors.

With the qualifier against Somalia looming, the condition of the Accra Sports Stadium remains a critical priority for the Black Stars' campaign. The NSA has yet to detail the specific measures put in place to protect the grass or provide a timeline for restoring the pitch to match-ready standards after the religious event concludes. Fans and analysts continue to call for stricter regulations on stadium usage to ensure that Ghana’s primary sporting facilities are preserved for their intended purpose, especially during international competition cycles.