By Brima Bangura
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has appointed a new head of the National Sports Authority (NSA), amid escalating tensions and controversy within the country’s sports administration.
In a public notice issued by the Office of the President on Thursday, Mohamed Alphaka Conteh was named Executive Director of the National Sports Authority, replacing embattled former boss Saffa Abdulai.
The appointment follows months of disputes that have rocked the sector, including the recent dismissal of the Leone Stars head coach and a widening rift among key stakeholders in football governance.
Sports Minister Augusta James-Teima had accused Abdulai of corruption, unprofessionalism and failure to follow due process, allegations that intensified tensions between the NSA leadership and the government. Abdulai, in turn, had pushed back publicly, contributing to a prolonged standoff involving the ministry and Thomas Daddy Brima Kamara, president of the Sierra Leone Football Association.
The dispute has played out in public statements and administrative actions, raising concerns about governance, accountability and the direction of football in the country.
The sacking of the Leone Stars coach earlier this year further highlighted the instability, with critics pointing to leadership wrangles as a factor undermining the national team’s performance and planning.
Analysts say Conteh’s appointment signals an effort by the government to reset the NSA and restore stability. However, they caution that resolving entrenched differences between the ministry, football authorities and other stakeholders will be key to rebuilding confidence in the sector.
The presidency also announced additional appointments, including Ahmed Saybom Kanu as Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, and Abubakarr S. Turay as Peace Ambassador.
Conteh’s appointment is subject to parliamentary approval where applicable.
