The Minister for Sports and Recreation,  Kofi Iddie Adams, officially assumed office on Monday, February 10, 2025, and held a meeting with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to discuss stadium security and the overall progress of Ghanaian football.

The discussions focused primarily on enhancing safety and security at match venues, following the tragic incident that led to the death of an Asante Kotoko fan during a league match against Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Koramansah Park in Nsoatre in the Bono Region.

Briefing the Minister on the status of investigations, the General Secretary of the GFA, Prosper Harrison Addo, confirmed that the incident was being treated as a criminal matter.

He assured the Minister of the GFA’s full cooperation with security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

The Minister emphasized the seriousness of losing a fan at a matching venue, stating that anyone found culpable would face the full rigours of the law.

He outlined steps taken by the GFA, including the temporary suspension of the league, to restore order in the Ghana Premier League.

The GFA, after consulting stakeholders, has drafted enhanced safety protocols for match venues, which will be submitted to the Minister for review and implementation.

Mr Adams reaffirmed his commitment to tackling hooliganism and improving the stadium experience for fans.

He directed the Chief Director of the Ministry, in collaboration with the GFA, to form a team to assess the suitability of match venues nationwide, ensuring they meet the required standards.

Additionally, he urged the GFA to intensify its “Say No to Hooliganism” campaign and educate fans, players, and officials on proper conduct at match venues.

He pledged regular engagements with the GFA to boost stadium attendance and revitalize football in Ghana.

Concluding the meeting, the Minister called for the full cooperation and support of all stakeholders, emphasizing the need for solutions to challenges in Ghanaian sports rather than blame allocation.