Alhaji Raji’s Reflections

Kwesi Nyantakyi’s era as the President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) remains a remarkable chapter in the history of Ghanaian football. Alhaji Raji, the former chairman of the Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA), recently shared his perspective on Nyantakyi’s lasting impact, calling him “the best-ever GFA president.”

During his tenure from 2005 to 2018, Nyantakyi transformed the face of Ghanaian football, delivering achievements that continue to resonate. He led the Black Stars to their first-ever FIFA World Cup in 2006, where they impressed the world with their debut performance in Germany. The success story didn’t stop there; under his guidance, the Black Stars qualified for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and made history by reaching the quarterfinals—an achievement that remains one of Africa’s proudest football moments.

Nyantakyi also steered Ghana to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, while the Black Stars played in two AFCON finals (2010 and 2015), finishing as runners-up. One of the crown jewels of his legacy was the Black Satellites’ historic triumph at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2009, making Ghana the first African nation to win the tournament.

Reflecting on these accomplishments, Alhaji Raji told Asempa FM, “Kwesi Nyantakyi is the best GFA president to have ever emerged from the country. He achieved so much for Ghana football. Yes, there were challenges, but his achievements are undeniable.”

Nyantakyi’s leadership, however, was marred by allegations of corruption revealed in an investigative exposé by journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas. This led to his resignation in 2018, with Kurt Okraku assuming the presidency in 2019 after a transitional Normalisation Committee.

Despite the controversy, many, including Alhaji Raji, argue that Nyantakyi’s contributions remain unparalleled. His tenure is a blend of triumph and turbulence—a legacy that will continue to spark debate in Ghanaian football circles for years to come.