The National Service Authority (NSA) has taken a big step to save the country money. They have removed over 2,000 fake or “ghost” names from their payroll. According to the NSA, this will save Ghana more than GH¢1 million.
Felix Gyamfi, the Director-General of the NSA, said, “This cleanup is part of efforts to make the service more transparent and free from fraud.”
He also explained that going forward, they will work with the Controller and Accountant General’s Department to check and confirm the details of all national service personnel. This is to stop any double payments or fake entries.
Mr. Gyamfi gave a strong warning:
“If you’re already on another payroll — whether as a police officer, immigration officer, or army officer — and you’re doing national service just to meet the requirement, do not submit your allowance form this month.”
He added,
“We are now working closely with the NIB and other security agencies, and anyone who attempts to defraud the system will be arrested.”
This action comes after President John Dramani Mahama asked for a full investigation into the issue of ghost names. In total, 81,885 ghost names were found during a headcount of service personnel. This huge number raised concerns at the highest levels of government.
Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirmed that this discovery was made during the nationwide headcount.
The Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, also ordered an audit to help clean up the system and clear unpaid allowances going back to August 2024. This problem was first revealed in November 2024 by an investigation done by The Fourth Estate.
Meanwhile, on March 20, the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) questioned the former NSA Executive Director, Osei Assibey Antwi, about his possible role in the fraud. He went with his lawyer for the meeting.
The Attorney General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has also stated that former directors of the NSA involved in the scandal will be charged in court.
This cleanup shows a strong effort by the government and the NSA to stop waste and protect public money. It also sends a clear message that fraud will not be tolerated in the national service scheme.
