The National Sports Authority (NSA) has denied authorising or participating in an alleged scheme in which about US$623,000 was reportedly collected from members of the public under the guise of facilitating visas for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, the NSA said it had not established, authorised or operated any office at the stadium for the collection of money or facilitation of World Cup visas.
The Authority also denied sanctioning or approving any visa-related activities of the nature alleged.
The NSA further clarified its relationship with TRIBE FEST, describing the organisation as a FIFA-licensed partner involved in fan-experience activities, World Cup viewing events and event mobilisation in collaboration with the NSA, the Ghana Tourism Authority and other stakeholders.
According to the NSA, however, its arrangement with TRIBE FEST did not authorise the organisation, any NSA employee or any other individual to collect money for visa procurement on behalf of the Authority.
The denial follows reports that individuals allegedly associated with the NSA collected approximately US$623,000 from prospective travellers who were promised assistance in securing visas to travel to the United States and Canada for the World Cup.
The NSA has also confirmed that it is aware of reports of a petition submitted to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service in connection with the alleged transactions.
However, the Authority said it had not received official notification of the full details of the petition and would therefore not speculate about its contents or the individuals reportedly named.
The NSA said it takes the allegations seriously and is prepared to cooperate fully with any lawful investigation by the Ghana Police Service. It added that the Director-General and other relevant officials would make themselves available to assist the police if required.
The Authority further stated that if credible evidence establishes wrongdoing by any employee, official or third party, it expects the appropriate legal action to be taken.
The NSA has meanwhile urged the media and the public to exercise restraint and avoid treating the allegations as established facts until investigations are completed.
By: Bernard Mensah
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