The Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has debunked reports that the Accra Sports Stadium and the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi have been closed down.
Speaking in an exclusive interview on Sporty FM on Monday, Mr. Ampofo Ankrah stated emphatically that both national facilities remain open and operational, contrary to speculations circulating on social media.
According to him, the NSA has not issued any directive for the closure of the two major stadia, explaining that what the Authority is currently undertaking is routine maintenance and pitch management to meet CAF and FIFA standards.
“Accra Sports Stadium and Kumasi Sports Stadium have not been closed. The stadia are open. What we are doing is strategic maintenance to preserve the pitch and improve facilities,” Mr. Ampofo Ankrah told Sporty FM.
He explained that following the heavy football calendar involving the Ghana Premier League, CAF inter-club competitions and national team assignments, there was the need to manage usage to prevent total deterioration of the playing surfaces.
On the Accra Sports Stadium, the DG revealed that measures are being put in place to ensure the pitch is in prime condition for upcoming international matches and domestic league games.
Touching on the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, he noted that the facility is also undergoing some minor works but remains available for approved matches.
Mr. Ampofo Ankrah further assured clubs, football fans and stakeholders that the NSA remains committed to ensuring that all national stadia are in good shape to host both local and international fixtures.
He called on the media and the public to disregard any false publication suggesting the closure of the two iconic stadia and to seek clarification from the NSA before publishing such reports.
He also used the opportunity to outline his vision for the NSA, which includes improved collaboration with clubs, sustainable stadium management and enhanced fan experience.
