The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, has officially assumed the leadership role of the sector today, Monday, February 10, 2025, with a meeting with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to discuss matters relating to stadium security and the progress of Ghana football.
The main focus of the meeting centred on enhancing safety and security at various match venues, following the unfortunate incident that rocked the football fraternity, resulting in the death of a fan of Asante Kotoko.
The incident occurred during a league match between Asante Kotoko and Nsoatreman Football Club at the Nana Koramansah Park in Nsoatre.
Briefing the minister on the status of investigations into the incident, the General Secretary of the Ghana Football Association, Prosper Harrison Addo, stated that it was being treated as a criminal matter.
He assured the minister of the full cooperation of the GFA with the security agencies to help bring the perpetrators to book.
The minister emphasized the seriousness of losing a fan at a match venue and assured that anyone found culpable would not be shielded from punishment but would face the full rigours of the law.
He went on to outline several engagements and steps taken by the GFA, including the suspension of the league, to restore the integrity of the Ghana Premier League going forward.
According to the General Secretary, the GFA, after engaging all its stakeholders, has drafted enhanced safety protocols for various match venues, which will be made available to the minister for his input and subsequent implementation.
For his part, the minister expressed his resolve to find a lasting solution to hooliganism to improve the stadium experience for fans. Regarding facilities, he directed the Chief Director of the ministry, together with the GFA, to constitute a team to reassess the suitability of match venues for league matches across the country and determine which venues meet the minimum standards per regulations.
He further directed the GFA to step up its “Say No to Hooliganism” campaign and enhance the education of all football fans, players, and officials to ensure proper conduct at match venues to prevent future occurrences. He added that he would continue to engage with the GFA regularly to enhance stadium attendance and revive interest in football.
The meeting concluded with the minister calling for the full cooperation and support of all stakeholders to improve Ghana’s football and other sports.
He emphasized the importance of focusing on solutions to the challenges in Ghana sports rather than apportioning blame.
