Former Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Ibrahim Sannie Daara, has publicly criticized Ghana’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Kofi Adams, over the timing of his disclosure of the Black Stars’ budget ahead of crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
Speaking on Sporty FM following Ghana’s 1–1 draw against Chad on Matchday 7 of the qualifiers, Sannie Daara described the minister’s actions as “poorly timed” and potentially disruptive to team morale. He argued that revealing financial details particularly reductions in player earnings just days before a competitive fixture was counterproductive.
“Which military in the history of mankind has been so foolish to announce the reduction of salaries for soldiers before a war?” Daara said, drawing a parallel between football preparation and military strategy.
The controversy stems from Minister Adams’ announcement earlier in the week that the GFA’s initial $1.2 million budget request for the September double-header had been revised down to $860Kc The minister also confirmed a $5,000 winning bonus per player, with an additional $5,000 promised upon successful qualification.
Daara, who also serves as a Senior Media Officer for the Confederation of African Football (CAF), expressed concern that the announcement created unnecessary tension and diverted attention from the team’s preparations. He urged the minister to refrain from further public commentary on the matter.
“The Sports Minister, Kofi Adams, should shut up. He should let the Black Stars players focus on the World Cup qualifiers,” Daara stated bluntly.
The Black Stars, currently leading Group I with 16 points, are set to face Mali in their next qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, September 8. Despite the draw against Chad, Ghana remains in a strong position to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
Public reaction to the budget disclosure has been mixed, with some defending the minister’s commitment to transparency, while others echo Daara’s concerns about timing and team focus.
As the qualifiers continue, stakeholders are calling for greater coordination between government officials and football authorities to ensure that off-field matters do not undermine on-field performance.
Story written by Adzadu Bright Eden / Kobby Kyei News
