National Sports Authority marks 25 years since May 9 Stadium disaster

The National Sports Authority (NSA) on Saturday, May 9, 2026, led the nation in commemorating the 25th anniversary of the May 9, 2001 Stadium Disaster at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The solemn event honored the memory of the 127 football fans who lost their lives in Ghana’s worst sporting tragedy, which occurred during a league match between Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko SC.

Government officials, football administrators, supporters’ groups, and families of the victims gathered to reflect on the painful chapter in the nation’s football history.

The ceremony began with a welcome address from the Director General of the National Sports Authority, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, who stressed the need to remember the victims while pushing forward an agenda of safety, discipline, and unity in sports.

Solidarity messages followed from representatives of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), a trustee of the May 9 Foundation, and officials from both Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko. Speakers appealed to supporters and stakeholders to uphold peace and sportsmanship to ensure such a tragedy never happens again.

Delivering the keynote address, the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, described the disaster as a deep wound in Ghana’s football story. He called for continuous improvements in crowd management, security, and safety protocols at all sporting venues nationwide.

Following the speeches, dignitaries and invited guests moved to the bronze statue at the May 9 Monument, where prayers were offered for the 127 departed souls. Wreaths were laid by representatives of the government, the NSA, the GFA, Hearts of Oak, Asante Kotoko, and the May 9 Foundation.

The annual commemoration remains a powerful reminder of the need for vigilance, responsibility, and unity in Ghanaian football.