The repair of the floodlights at the Accra Sports Stadium could cost between GH¢1.5 million and GH¢2 million, Acting Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Prof. Emmanuel Osei Sarpong, has disclosed.
In an interview with Citi Sports, he said the authority cannot guarantee that the repairs will be completed before Ghana’s November Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Somalia.
“Maybe between 1.5 million and 2 million. Because it’s a huge thing,” he said.
A rainstorm on April 29 reportedly caused extensive damage to the floodlights at the Accra Sports Stadium. The storm, accompanied by heavy rainfall and strong winds, damaged parts of the lighting system, with one of the towers suffering significant structural damage.
Prof Sarpong explained that the repairs would require specialised equipment, cranes and work on the metal frames supporting the floodlights.
“The floodlights are a concern. I can’t promise that before our game against Somalia it would be fixed. If I tell you that, I’m not being honest,” he said.
The NSA boss said engineers would assess the damage before the work begins, adding that the authority would prioritise a lasting solution rather than rush the repairs.
He said the floodlights could still be used for other programmes but were not suitable for football matches requiring full illumination.
The uncertainty over the repairs raises concerns about the stadium’s readiness to host evening matches as Ghana prepares for its November AFCON qualifiers against Somalia.
