GFA boss Kurt Okraku pays courtesy call on Northern Regional Minister ahead of final leg of Northern tour

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has paid a courtesy call on the Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, in Tamale, ahead of the final leg of his tour of the three Northern Regions.

The visit formed part of the GFA President’s wider stakeholder engagement agenda, aimed at strengthening collaboration and accelerating football development across the country.

President Simeon-Okraku expressed appreciation to the Minister for the warm reception and explained that his presence in the region was to engage key football stakeholders and deepen partnerships that support the growth of the game. He noted that the Football Association remains committed to youth development, stressing that all stakeholders share a collective responsibility to create opportunities for young people in the Northern Region and across Ghana.

According to the GFA President, football continues to serve as an effective tool for youth empowerment, social cohesion and national unity. He also underscored the need for a strong and collaborative relationship between the Football Association, government and local authorities, describing such cooperation as essential for the sustainable growth of football in the region and nationwide.

In response, Honourable Ali Adolf John welcomed the GFA President and his delegation, expressing delight at the visit and reaffirming his personal passion for football. The Minister pledged to prioritise the development of the sport in Tamale and the wider Northern Region, recognising its importance to youth empowerment and community development.

He assured President Simeon-Okraku of his full support and indicated his intention to work closely with District Chief Executives to secure stronger backing for grassroots football initiatives across the region.

President Simeon-Okraku was led to the meeting by the Chairman of the Northern Regional Football Association, Abu-Hassan Rhyzo, alongside members of the Regional Executive Committee, as he officially commenced activities in the Northern Region.

The visit follows the successful completion of the President’s tours of the Upper West and Upper East Regions.