Dodzie Numekevor has been removed from his position as Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA) after just six months in office.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in a letter dated September 17, 2024, directed the termination of Numekevor’s appointment, without citing specific reasons.
The letter, signed by Ambassador Nana Bediatuo Asante, the Secretary to the President, instructed Numekevor to hand over to the Chairman of the NSA Governing Board.
This comes at a time when Numekevor is campaigning for the Sege constituency Parliamentary seat on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Numekevor’s brief tenure saw controversy, particularly surrounding the deteriorating conditions of Ghana’s sports facilities.
Under his leadership, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) withdrew its approval of the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi for international matches.
The stadium, which has hosted numerous high-profile events, was deemed unsuitable due to a severely damaged playing surface.
The inspection followed the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier between Ghana and Angola on September 5, 2024, where CAF flagged significant technical infractions, including uneven surfaces and poor drainage.
This decision leaves Ghana uncertain about hosting its October AFCON qualifier against Sudan.
Before taking on the role, Numekevor had expressed ambitions to restore the NSA’s reputation and enhance Ghana’s sports facilities.
He succeeded Prof. Peter Twumasi in March 2024, who had also been relieved under similar circumstances.
Despite his previous work as a Public Relations Officer at the Ghana High Commission in the UK, Numekevor’s tenure at the NSA failed to prevent further decline in stadium conditions, culminating in CAF’s withdrawal of approval for the Baba Yara Stadium.
TERMINATION OF OFFICE AND HANDING OVER
I am directed by the President of the Republic to inform you that your appointment as the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (Authority”) has been terminated with Immediate effect.
You are directed to hand over your Office to the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Authority, who is copied on this letter.
Please ensure that you hand over and cease to act as the Director-General of the Authority no later than the close of business on 17* September, 2024.
The President thanks you for your service to the nation and extends his best wishes.
