The Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, delivered an inspiring presentation of his two-year achievements since assuming office. The well-attended press conference, held at the NSA Headquarters in Freetown on Monday, 20th April 2026, offered the public an insightful overview of significant reforms and developments under his dynamic leadership.
Dr. Abdulai opened his address by expressing heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio, for entrusting him with the leadership of Sierra Leone’s sole statutory sports agency. Reflecting on his tenure so far, he recalled taking office with a comprehensive seven-pillar agenda aimed at transforming the sports sector. These pillars included transparency and accountability, infrastructural development, capacity building, and the devolution of sports activities across the country, among other priorities.
“With the steadfast support of my dedicated staff, we have reformed the entire administration of the NSA,” Dr. Abdulai told journalists. He elaborated on concrete steps taken, such as realigning staffing for improved efficiency and service delivery, recruiting and promoting deserving personnel, and strategically deploying staff to local councils to invigorate sporting activities nationwide. Additionally, he introduced an open-door policy fostering teamwork, drafted five crucial sports regulations and policies, and prioritized capacity building through managerial and development programs both nationally and internationally. Dr. Abdulai also highlighted increased financial support to National Sports Organizations (NSOs) as part of his commitment to strengthening grassroots and elite sports alike.
Infrastructure development stood out prominently in his presentation. Using a detailed PowerPoint slideshow, Dr. Abdulai showcased ongoing projects that signal a new era for sports facilities in Sierra Leone. Notably, he cited the completion of four artificial turf pitches, including the Tihun Artificial Turf and the near-completed Kailahun Artificial Turf. “In just two years, I have delivered four artificial turfs, and by the end of this year, the number will increase,” he proudly announced. He further revealed plans for a new facility in Kono, facilitated with invaluable support from the Office of the First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, promising expanded access and improved playing conditions for athletes nationwide.
Beyond football infrastructure, Dr. Abdulai also pointed to the successful renovation of the Hill Station Tennis Court—an initiative supported by the NSA—which has already begun attracting tennis enthusiasts within the Hill Station community, fostering greater participation in diverse sporting disciplines.
The press conference concluded with a renewed call from Dr. Abdulai for collaborative efforts from government agencies, private partners, and the sports fraternity to sustain momentum and elevate Sierra Leone’s sports sector to new heights. His two-year report not only underscores achieved milestones, but also sets a robust foundation for future development in sport governance, infrastructure, and athlete empowerment across the nation.
As Sierra Leone continues to invest in sports as a key driver of national pride, youth engagement, and social cohesion, the achievements under Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai’s stewardship of the National Sports Authority promise a brighter, more inclusive sporting future for all.
