A simmering leadership crisis within the Muslim community of the Volta regional capital has reached a boiling point following a directive from the Volta Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to shut down the Ho Central Mosque.

The closure for a duration of two weeks was ordered in consultation with the Ministry for the Interior.

However, the Ulema of the Ho Zongo Community has reacted with fierce opposition, characterising the move as an affront to the rights of a peaceful congregation.

The Ulema maintains that for decades, the Ho Central Mosque has been a beacon of tranquillity.

According to their statement, the current unrest was not a spontaneous community brawl but a calculated intrusion by an outside faction.

The community alleges that a group—backed by armed men—forcefully breached the mosque’s perimeter.

Reports of gunshots fired within the sacred premises have particularly incensed the leadership, who argue that the sanctity of their place of worship was violated by criminal elements.

In a strongly-worded communiqué signed by the Secretary of the Ho Zongo Community, Abdul-Razak Abubakar, the leadership questioned the logic behind punishing the entire worshipping body for the actions of a violent few.

The Ulema raised three critical concerns regarding the REGSEC directive:

1. Security vs. Closure: Why authorities opted for a shutdown instead of stationing adequate security to protect peaceful worshippers.
2. Lack of Accountability: The perceived failure of the police to arrest and prosecute the individuals who brought firearms into the mosque.
3. Neutrality: Allegations of “selective actions” by regional authorities that appear to tilt the scales in favour of one faction rather than upholding the rule of law.

The Regional Security Council defended the two-week cooling-off period, citing the need to prevent potential bloodshed during the ongoing leadership dispute.

Such closures are often used as a “stop-gap” measure under the Public Order Act to de-escalate tensions in volatile religious or chieftaincy conflicts.

However, the Ho Zongo leadership remains unconvinced.

“Muslims in Ho have worshipped peacefully at the mosque for many years without incident,” the statement reminded the public, placing the blame squarely on the “armed group” that initiated the fracas.

The Ho Zongo Community is now looking beyond the regional administration for a resolution.

They have appealed to the National Peace Council, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and the media to scrutinise the handling of the dispute.

The statement concluded with a plea for transparency:

“The appropriate authorities, civil society organisations and the media [must] take a keen interest in the matter to ensure fairness and justice prevail.”

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Prophet Nigel Gaisie (L) says Dr Bawumia will win NPP presidential primaries but…

The founder and leader of the Prophetic Hill Church, Prophet Nigel Gaisie, has prophesied that former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia will win the upcoming presidential primaries of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Delivering his prophecies at his church’s December 31, 2025, Watch Night Service, the prophet asserted that Dr Bawumia, who was the flagbearer of the NPP in the 2024 presidential election, will snatch the victory from another contender in the race he called “Mr Tesite”.

“The Spirit of God carried me. The Spirit of God carried me. And when the Spirit of God carried me, I saw Mr Tesite leading and seemingly as though he has won. Then I saw lamentations. I saw pleadings. I saw lamentations. I saw pleadings.

“Then I saw that the win that is for Mr Tesite, I saw another take it. I saw Dr Bawumia take it. I saw the perfect will of God turning into the permissive will of God. I had a lot to talk there. I had a lot to speak to about that, but I’m being guided. But I’ve spoken the mind of God,” he said.

Nigel indicated that there is likely to be a lot of legal battles after the primaries, saying, “If they don’t take care, the election will end in court. And I saw security problems.”

LIVESTREAMED: 2025 31st Night Prophecies with Prophet Nigel Gaisie

He indicated that the lamentations and pleadings which switched the win in favour of Dr Bawumia were prayers from men of God.

“I repeat the NPP primary, which will be on January 31; they have 30 days more to go. I saw Mr Tesite going as though he has won. And I saw pleadings. I saw men of God praying. I saw speaking. I saw that it was switched, and I saw Doctor Bawumia.

He added, “But Dr Bawumia, there is a lot of work to do, but I have spoken as a Prophet; may the will of the Lord be done.”

BAI

Meanwhile, watch as Acting Defence Minister Ato Forson inaugurates 9-Member Ministerial Advisory Board

Several Ghana Premier League sides underlined their quality on Tuesday as Berekum Chelsea, FC Samartex 1996, Dreams FC, Nations FC and Aduana FC booked their places in the Round of 16 of the Ghana FA Cup with commanding performances across the country.

The most emphatic result came in Sameraboi, where FC Samartex 1996 produced a ruthless display to overwhelm Debiso Soccer Lions 9-1 at the Nsekyire Sports Arena. The Timber Giants wasted no time asserting control, racing into a three-goal lead inside the opening 14 minutes.

Osman Zakaria set the tone early and later completed a brace, while Benedict Afful also struck twice after the interval. Godwin Sefah, Ronald Grippman, Felix Koduah Jnr and Solomon Agyei added their names to the scoresheet as Samartex reached the break with a commanding 5-0 advantage and never looked back.

Nations FC were equally efficient at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, scoring three times in the opening 19 minutes to secure a 3-0 victory over FC AshantiGold ’04. Brandon Antwi opened the scoring before Emmanuel Annor netted twice in quick succession to seal progression before half-time.

Former champions Dreams FC maintained their steady cup form with a 2-0 win over Asanka FC. Goals from Aminu Adams and Abdul Razak Salifu ensured the ‘Still Believe’ side advanced, continuing their positive run after edging Semper FI in the previous round.

At the Berekum Golden City Park, Aduana FC recorded a controlled 2-0 win against Berekum Arsenal, with Richard Yeboah and Ben Dauda Sidibe scoring in either half.

Earlier in the day, Attram De Visser edged Port City 4-2 on penalties after a goalless draw, keeping alive their hopes of another deep FA Cup run.

A long-standing family dispute over a piece of land took a horrific turn on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, leaving two people dead and two others in police custody.

The Upper West Regional Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the violent clash, which has left the local community in a state of shock as they usher in the New Year.

Confirming the casualties in an official briefing, the Regional Police Commander, DCOP Francis Yiribaare, expressed deep regret over the loss of life, describing the escalation of the family feud as a preventable tragedy.

The violence erupted in the late afternoon of Tuesday when members of the same family, reportedly divided over the ownership of a specific plot of land, transitioned from verbal arguments to a physical confrontation.

“This is a very unfortunate situation here. We all have the information that just in the latter part of the day yesterday, there was a clash of the family over a piece of land,” DCOP Yiribaare stated.

Upon receiving distress calls, the police command activated its Quick Response Team (QRT).

However, the speed of the violence outpaced the arrival of the authorities. By the time the QRT reached the scene, the disputed land had become a crime scene.

“On arrival, we discovered that the clash had gone too far, resulting in the death of one person right on the spot,” the Regional Commander revealed.

A second victim was discovered alive but unconscious amidst the chaos. Despite the efforts of the police to provide a rapid medical evacuation, the injuries proved too severe.

“One that we met at the scene was also unconscious and was immediately rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately, he also passed,” DCOP Yiribaare added, bringing the total death toll to two.

Forensic teams and investigators spent the night and the early hours of the next morning combing the area for evidence.

The Commander noted that the investigation has been aided by the willingness of local residents to provide information.

“The general public has been very cooperative since we started. We have processed the crime scene, and the management team covered and processed every particle that mattered in the issue,” he said.

Two suspects have been secured by the police so far:

1. Suspect One: Currently on admission at a regional health facility, receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the clash while under heavy police guard.
2. Suspect Two: Apprehended in a dawn raid and currently held in a police detention facility.

“So far, one person is on admission but under police guard as a suspect, under arrest. We have one other individual who was also arrested in the latter part of the dawn of this morning and is also in detention,” the Commander confirmed.

A major road passing through the vicinity of the clash was temporarily cordoned off to preserve the integrity of the crime scene and prevent further reprisal attacks.

DCOP Yiribaare assured the public that traffic would be restored shortly.

“We are still processing a few issues and once that is done, we should be able to open it up,” he assured.

Beyond the immediate legal action, the Commander used the tragedy as a stark reminder of the dangers of bypassing lawful dispute resolution mechanisms.

He urged families to use the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) systems or the traditional councils rather than resorting to “jungle justice”.

“I want to encourage the family to continue to resort to the police for every other issue surrounding this land or to the locals for a very peaceful resolution of the matter,” he advised. “In matters like this, we should try to use peaceful means rather than violence. In so doing, we continue to preserve the peace and stability of the region and also create a safer community for development and social activities to go on.”

The police have vowed that the perpetrators of the violence will face the full rigours of the law.

“We are leaving no stone unturned in getting to the bottom of it and ensuring that justice takes its own course,” DCOP Yiribaare concluded.

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President John Dramani Mahama has extended warm New Year greetings to Ghanaians, expressing optimism that 2026 will bring prosperity, peace and national progress.

In a New Year message released to mark the beginning of the year, the President encouraged citizens to embrace hope, unity and a shared commitment to national development as the country charts its course for the months ahead.

“May the new year, 2026, bring us all prosperity, peace, and progress,” the message said.

The President’s remarks, delivered a few minutes into the new year, come at a time when many Ghanaians are reflecting on the challenges of the previous year and looking ahead to renewed opportunities for economic recovery, social cohesion, and inclusive growth.

The message underscores the importance of collective effort and national solidarity in achieving shared goals.

The New Year greeting also reaffirmed the government’s focus on building a stable and peaceful society while pursuing policies aimed at improving livelihoods and strengthening Ghana’s democratic and development institutions.

As Ghanaians usher in 2026, the President’s message has resonated as a call for renewed commitment to hard work, unity and optimism, with the hope that the year ahead will deliver meaningful progress for individuals, communities and the nation as a whole.

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DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Ebo Noah claimed that the world will end on December 25

The Ghana Police Service has reportedly arrested self-acclaimed prophet Evans Eshun, who gained public attention after claiming to have received a divine vision predicting a global flood on December 25, 2025.

According to multiple reports, Prophet Ebo Noah, who is popularly known as Ebo Noah, was picked up by the GPS Special Cyber Vetting Team on December 31, 2025.

A photo of the arrest, which has gone viral, shows Ebo Noah in handcuffs at what looks like a police facility.

The self-proclaimed Ghanaian prophet made headlines, especially on social media, for constructing a modern-day Noah’s ark.

Explaining his motive for building the ark, Ebo Noah claimed that God had warned him that the world would end on December 25, 2025, coinciding with Christmas Day.

In describing his vision, he stated that God would bring about great destruction, with heavy rains and floods devastating the earth.

He further explained that he had been instructed by God to build the ark to rescue souls who wished to be saved, just as described in the biblical story of Noah and the flood.

In many of his clips, Ebo is seen showing off the boats or building materials, claiming that he has built ten arks.

Who is Ebo Noah and why is he building an ark like the biblical Noah?

In a video titled “What Will Happen and How It Will Happen,” posted on YouTube in August, Ebo claimed to have received a divine vision from God, who said it would rain for three years beginning on December 25.

He planned to live on the ark for three years during this predicted mass flooding.

Ebo’s construction of the ark has generated both local and global attention, with his videos garnering millions of views and engagements on social media.

It, however, turned out that the supposed ark, which were actually boats, did not belong to him, and on December 25, 2025, there was no flood.

BAI

The British boxer Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital, Nigerian authorities said on Wednesday night. The two-time former heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist was involved in a car accident near Lagos on Monday which killed two of his close associates and team members.

The 36-year-old had been under observation while recovering from minor injuries, his promoter had said on Monday.

The Lagos state commissioner for information and strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, said in a statement on X that Joshua had been discharged from the Duchess international hospital in Ikeja on Wednesday afternoon as he was deemed clinically fit to “recuperate at home”.

“Anthony and his mother were at the funeral home in Lagos this afternoon to pay their final respects to his two departed friends as they were being prepared for repatriation scheduled for later this evening,” Omotoso said.

Latif Ayodele, a personal trainer for Joshua, and Sina Ghami, a strength and conditioning coach, died in the crash on 29 December. Omotoso said that the boxer was “heavy-hearted and full of emotions over the loss of his two close friends”. Just hours before the crash, Joshua and Ayodele posted clips on social media of them playing table tennis together.

The crash has elicited growing concerns about road safety in Nigeria, where accidents are common. The west African nation recorded 5,421 deaths in 9,570 road accidents in 2024, according to data by the country’s federal road safety corps. Its data showed 340 more people were killed in road accidents last year compared to 2023.

Joshua had recently won a bout against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on 19 December, marking his return to the ring after a 15-month absence.

ABUJA, Nigeria — British boxer Anthony Joshua has been released from hospital, Nigerian authorities said late Wednesday night.

The two-time former heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist was involved in a fatal road crash near Lagos on Monday which killed two of his close associates and team members.

Joshua had been under “observation” at Lagoon Hospital in Lagos while recovering from minor injuries, his promoter said Monday.

The Lagos state commissioner for information, Gbenga Omotoso, said in a statement on X that Joshua was discharged late Wednesday afternoon after being deemed clinically fit to recuperate from “home.”

“Anthony and his mother were at the funeral home in Lagos this afternoon to pay their final respects to his two departed friends as they were being prepared for repatriation scheduled for later this evening,” Omotosho said.

Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele were killed in the crash. Ghami was Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach while Ayodele was a trainer. Just hours before the crash, Joshua and Ayodele posted clips on social media playing table tennis together.

The accident has elicited growing concerns about road safety in Nigeria, where accidents are common.

The West African nation recorded 5,421 deaths in 9,570 road accidents in 2024, according to data by the country’s Federal Road Safety Corps. Its data showed 340 more people were killed in road accidents last year compared to 2023.

Joshua had recently won a bout against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on Dec. 19, a fight he used to improve fitness in a bid to contest future top-flight boxing titles.

The newly installed chief of Okobeyeyie, near Samsam, Nii Patapaa I, has outlined an ambitious development agenda aimed at transforming the community and improving the livelihoods of residents.

Speaking after his installation, Nii Patapaa I said his topmost priorities include the construction of a modern market and a police station for the area. According to him, these projects will stimulate economic activity while also enhancing security within the community.

The chief explained that a well-structured market will create opportunities for traders, boost local commerce, and make Okobeyeyie more vibrant economically. He added that the establishment of a police station will help reduce crime and ensure the safety of residents and businesses.

Nii Patapaa I further emphasized the need to empower the youth, noting that development cannot be achieved without their active involvement. He called on young people in the community to engage in productive ventures that would help shape a better and more sustainable future for themselves and the area as a whole.

He appealed to stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, and indigenes of Okobeyeyie both home and abroad, to support his vision for rapid development.

Residents have welcomed the chief’s commitments, expressing hope that his leadership will usher in a new era of growth, opportunity, and peace for the community.

Haruna Mohammed, Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has accused the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) of failing to fulfil its promises, arguing that Ghanaians are worse off economically under the party’s stewardship in 2025.

Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Wednesday, December 31, Haruna Mohammed criticised what he described as deteriorating living standards, particularly among workers, and pointed to deepening challenges in the agricultural sector.

He maintained that unfulfilled promises and poor economic direction have contributed to growing hardship across the country.

“Indeed Ghana is an interesting place for us at the moment. The Almighty God has tested the people of Ghana with regards to the deception of the NDC. The promises that have been given by the NDC today are questionable, the standard of living of the people has worsened, more especially the Ghanaian workers.

“The most important aspect is the agricultural aspect… For me there is all sense of hopelessness, no direction, deception has taken over and all the promises given to the people of Ghana have fallen down,” Mohammed said.

Read also

Police arrest suspect in GH¢7.5m Adabraka robbery

Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku

Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku, has expressed concern over the state of the economy, saying conditions on the ground do not reflect government claims that the economy is improving under the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

According to him, economic activities in the markets remain slow, with ordinary Ghanaians struggling to cope with the high cost of living.

“Things are very tough. When you go to the market, you realise that business is very slow. The government says the economy is doing well and that there is no hardship but that is not the situation on the ground,” he said.

Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku questioned official inflation figures, arguing that regardless of the percentages announced, prices of basic goods remain high.

“They talk about inflation, whether it is 6 percent or 24 percent but inflation is inflation. The reality is that prices are still high,” he stated.

Using food prices to illustrate his point, he noted that expectations of relief under the government’s much-publicised reset agenda have not materialised.

“I thought by now kenkey would be selling at two cedis but it is still five cedis. This is the first Christmas under this government, yet some people cannot even afford to buy fowl. We are not feeling the reset agenda. Things are still hard,” he added.

The Ghana Police Service has stated that it has intensified efforts to disrupt and dismantle illegal arms supply networks operating across the country.

The assurance comes amid a series of intelligence-led operations that have led to the arrest of suspected robbers, arms dealers and a man accused of impersonating a military officer.

Addressing a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, December 31, Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, said recent arrests demonstrate the Service’s resolve to tackle organised crime.

“We are working deliberately to dismantle the illegal arms supply network in this country and to prevent the circulation of prohibited weapons within the country,” she said.

She further disclosed that eight suspects were arrested in connection with a violent residential robbery at Apollonia, a suburb of Accra, following intelligence-led investigations.

According to the CID, the suspects allegedly attacked residents in their homes, ransacked rooms and made away with valuables, with items such as helmets, cutlasses, boots and a body armour vest retrieved to aid investigations.

In a separate operation, the Police arrested a suspect for unlawfully impersonating a soldier across parts of the Greater Accra, Ashanti and Eastern regions.

The suspect was found in full military camouflage, with firearms, ammunition and other items retrieved, with preliminary investigations suggesting the impersonation was used to intimidate members of the public and facilitate criminal activities.

COP Yaako Donkor further revealed the arrest of an arms dealer in Accra after intelligence indicated he was attempting to sell an assault rifle.

The suspect, identified as Abdullah Ibrahim, was arrested at the point of sale, with investigations linking him to the trafficking of firearms to parts of northern Ghana.

The CID Director-General assured the public that investigations are ongoing and urged citizens to cooperate with the Police by providing timely information to support crime prevention efforts.

Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital days after a car crash in Nigeria that killed two of his close friends.

The British-Nigerian boxing star is now recovering at his home in the country, according to a statement from the regional governments of Lagos and Ogun states.

Joshua was travelling in the back of a black SUV when it hit a stationary truck on a major road near Lagos, killing his friends Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami.

The 36-year-old two-time world champion and his mother paid their respects to them at a funeral home on Wednesday afternoon ahead of their repatriation to the UK, the statement added.

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The year 2025 will be remembered as a defining period for Ghana’s education sector—a year marked by difficult choices, honest national reflection, and the beginning of a deliberate reset under President John Dramani Mahama.

When President Mahama and his Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, assumed office, they inherited an education system burdened by deep structural challenges. Years of accumulated debt, weak investment in basic education, unpaid statutory obligations, stalled infrastructure projects, and unresolved teacher welfare issues had significantly constrained service delivery and threatened the quality and sustainability of education at all levels.

From the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme and special needs education to expired teacher recruitment windows, struggling nascent public universities, unpaid obligations to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), and delays in promotions and allowances for teachers, the scale of inherited difficulties was enormous.

A National Conversation to Reset Education

Recognising the urgency and complexity of the situation, President Mahama and the Education Ministry convened a historic National Education Forum in Ho, in the Volta Region. The forum brought together key stakeholders—teachers, unions, parents, academics, students, civil society organisations, policymakers, and the President himself—for a frank and solutions-oriented dialogue on the future of Ghana’s education system.

The outcome of the Ho Forum was a set of practical recommendations that now form the backbone of ongoing reforms, implemented alongside the President’s manifesto commitments and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s broader human capital development agenda.

Education as a Budgetary Priority

A clear test of any government’s commitment to transformation lies in how it allocates resources. From the outset, President Mahama demonstrated this commitment by prioritising education in his maiden budget.

In the 2025 Budget Statement, education received one of the largest sectoral allocations, aimed at stabilising the system and laying the foundation for long-term reform.

Historic Investment in Basic Education

For the first time in over five decades, basic education received a historic allocation of GHC 9.1 billion—the highest in 50 years. This decisive investment reflects a renewed focus on foundational learning, which had suffered years of neglect despite being the most critical stage in a child’s educational journey.

The funding is already supporting classroom infrastructure, learning materials, sanitation, and teacher support at the basic level nationwide.

Resetting Free SHS: From Access to Quality

While the Free SHS policy succeeded in expanding access, it was inherited in a form that prioritised enrolment over quality, resulting in overcrowding, infrastructure deficits, and the controversial double-track system that reduced teacher–student contact hours.

President Mahama’s administration has embarked on a reset—maintaining Free SHS while transforming it into a sustainable and high-quality programme for national development.

In 2025, Free SHS received GHC 3.5 billion under GETFund, the highest allocation since the programme began. This funding has strengthened student feeding, logistics, and learning conditions. Notably, about 100 double-track schools have already been converted to single-track, with a firm commitment to abolish the system entirely.

Additionally, government plans include upgrading:

10 Category D schools to Category C
10 Category C schools to Category B
30 Category B schools to Category A

while improving infrastructure in existing Category A schools.

Improved Feeding and Student Welfare

Reforms in the management of SHS feeding have led to noticeable improvements, with positive feedback from students, teachers, parents, and school administrators. Government continues to engage stakeholders to further enhance both nutrition and learning outcomes.  At the basic level, GHC 895 million has been paid to support the School Feeding Programme, alongside an increase in the feeding grant per child.

Advancing Girls’ Education

In a major step toward gender equity, government rolled out the free distribution of sanitary pads to school-going girls. Over six million sanitary pads have been distributed to girls in basic and second-cycle schools, reducing absenteeism and helping to keep girls in school.

Clearing Arrears and Supporting Schools

Under the year in review, the Ministry of Education cleared inherited arrears, including:
GHC 72.8 million in Capitation Grant arrears
GHC 122.8 million paid timely for BECE registration
Payment of WASSCE practical fees
Feeding grants for special needs schools
Government has also directed all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies to construct a Nursery, Primary and JHS from the 2025 District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF).
Teachers at the Centre of Reform
Teacher welfare featured prominently in 2025. Key achievements include:
Payment of GHC 52 million in Teacher Training Allowance
Restoration of promotion eligibility up to Director rank

Cancellation of the Teacher Licensure Exams requirement that forced trainees to return to campus months after graduation
Placement of over 30,000 diploma teachers who upgraded to degrees onto the appropriate PS salary scale. PTAs have also been reactivated nationwide to strengthen school governance and discipline.

Revitalising Infrastructure and Tertiary Education

All stalled E-Blocks (Community Day SHSs) are being revisited, while tertiary education saw landmark interventions.
Under the No Fees Stress Initiative, the Students Loan Trust Fund reimbursed academic facility user fees for first-year students in public tertiary institutions. Out of 178,745 enrolment records, 152,698 students were successfully validated and reimbursed—removing financial barriers to access tertiary education.

President Mahama also approved the construction of a 600-bed hostel at Dr. Hilla Limann Technical University, addressing a long-standing accommodation challenge.

To strengthen nascent public universities, government released GHC 40 million in seed funding, with GHC 10 million each allocated to:
C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences
University of Energy and Natural Resources
University of Health and Allied Sciences
S.D. Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies

Reforming Scholarships

Parliament has passed the Scholarship Authority Bill, now awaiting Presidential assent. The Bill aims to eliminate cronyism and political interference in scholarship awards, promote transparency and fairness, and align scholarships with national skills needs through collaboration with the National Development Planning Commission.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The 2026 Budget has allocated GHC 33.3 billion to education, with priorities including:
Upgrading 30 Category C SHSs to Category B
Completing 30 abandoned E-Blocks
Constructing 200 JHSs, 200 primary schools, and 200 kindergartens
Building 400 teachers’ bungalows
Procuring and distributing millions of curriculum-based textbooks .
Supplying desks, buses, pickups, and administrative vehicles to schools and education directorates

Conclusion

The 2025 year under review confirms that Ghana’s education sector is on a deliberate path of recovery and transformation. Through honest diagnosis, historic investment, and people-centred reforms, President John Dramani Mahama and the Ministry of Education have begun rebuilding confidence in the system—laying a strong foundation for quality, equity, and sustainable human capital development in the years ahead.

The writer, Hashmin Mohammed is a  Press Secretary to the Minister for Education

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has cautioned against the politicisation of Ghana’s democratic institutions, warning that short-term political gains must never come at the expense of the country’s democracy.

Speaking in a New Year message on Wednesday, December 31, that combined reflection on Ghana’s national journey with commentary on current governance, Dr. Bawumia said the strength of Ghana’s democracy since the advent of the Fourth Republic has rested largely on the independence and credibility of its institutions.

According to him, when political expediency begins to override democratic principles, public trust is eroded and national progress is put at risk.

“Let me stress unequivocally that when institutions are weakened, democracy is weakened. When institutions are politicised, trust is lost,” Dr. Bawumia stated.

The NPP presidential candidate expressed concern that recent developments have created anxiety among sections of the public about the fairness, consistency and independence of state institutions. Such concerns, he noted, should not be dismissed, as confidence is central to social cohesion and economic advancement.

“When citizens begin to worry about fairness, independence and consistency, confidence is affected, and when confidence is shaken, progress becomes harder,” he added.

Dr. Bawumia warned that Ghana must resist any temptation to compromise its democratic values in pursuit of short-term political advantage, stressing that there can be no turning back on the democratic gains made over the years.

“Ghana’s democracy must never be sacrificed on the altar of short-term political advantage. There could be no turning back for our nation,” he said.

The former Vice President also used the occasion to advise President John Dramani Mahama to focus on strengthening, rather than undermining, the institutions that underpin Ghana’s democratic order, arguing that strong institutions remain the surest guarantee of stability, unity and national development.

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A new whitepaper from Frontiers shows that AI has rapidly become part of everyday peer review, with 53% of reviewers now using AI tools. The findings in “Unlocking AI’s untapped potential: responsible innovation in research and publishing” point to a pivotal moment for research publishing.

Drawing on insights from 1,645 active researchers worldwide, the whitepaper identifies a global community eager to use AI confidently and responsibly. While many reviewers currently rely on AI for drafting reports or summarizing findings, the report highlights significant untapped potential for AI to support rigor, reproducibility, and deeper methodological insight.

The survey, conducted in May and June 2025, represents the first large scale study to examine AI adoption, trust, training, and governance within authoring, reviewing, and editorial workflows.

Kamila Markram, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Frontiers, said, “AI is transforming how science is written and reviewed, opening new possibilities for quality, collaboration, and global participation. This whitepaper is a call to action for the whole research ecosystem to embrace that potential. With aligned policies and responsible governance, AI will strengthen the integrity of science and accelerate discovery”.

However, the transformation reveals both promise and limitations. Most usage remains limited in scope, with reviewers primarily relying on AI for drafting reports, improving clarity and summarizing manuscripts. Only about 19 percent use AI to evaluate methodology, statistical validity or experimental design, areas traditionally considered the intellectual core of peer review.

The study shows broad enthusiasm for using AI more effectively, especially among early career researchers, where 87 percent reported use, and within rapidly growing research regions including China at 77 percent and Africa at 66 percent.

Elena Vicario, Director of Research Integrity at Frontiers, said, “AI is already improving efficiency and clarity in peer review, but its greatest value lies ahead. With the right governance, transparency and training, AI can become a powerful partner in strengthening research quality and increasing trust in the scientific record”.

The research reveals what experts call a “trust paradox.” While many scientists agree that AI can improve manuscript quality, 57 percent say they would be unhappy if a reviewer used AI to write peer review reports on their own manuscripts. That number drops to 42 percent when AI is used merely to augment reports.

Additionally, 72 percent of respondents believe they could accurately detect an AI written peer review report on a manuscript they had authored, though research suggests this confidence may be misplaced.

When analyzing responses by career stage, more junior researchers tend to have a more positive view of the impact of generative AI compared with more senior colleagues. In total, 48 percent of junior researchers thought that AI would have a positive impact on peer review compared with 34 percent of more senior researchers.

In a foreword to the paper, Markram says AI is often used in peer review for surface tasks, like polishing language, drafting text or handling administration, rather than for deeper analytical and methodological work where it could truly elevate rigor, reproducibility and scientific discovery.

The report calls for coordinated action across the research ecosystem, urging publishers to embed transparency, disclosure and human oversight into editorial workflows. Universities and research institutions are encouraged to integrate AI literacy into formal training, while funders and policymakers are asked to harmonize standards internationally.

Frontiers’ position is that clear boundaries, human accountability and well governed, secure tools are more effective than blanket prohibitions in protecting and strengthening research integrity. The company notes that the greater risk to peer review quality comes from unregulated, opaque or undisclosed AI use, which is already occurring across the research ecosystem.

The quiet revolution inside peer review is already reshaping how science is evaluated, paper by paper, reviewer by reviewer. Whether it strengthens scientific integrity or weakens public trust will depend on whether the global research community can govern AI with the same rigor it demands of evidence itself.

The Ghana Police Service has arrested Evans Eshun, popularly known as Ebo Noah, over his claims of a predicted global flood that caused widespread fear and panic.

Police sources say Ebo Noah was picked up on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, following weeks of public concern over his activities and pronouncements.

Ebo Noah gained attention in August 2025 after claiming he had received a divine instruction to build modern-day arks to save people from a three-year global flood. He said the disaster would begin on December 25, 2025, and urged people to prepare by coming to his designated site.

Reports indicate that hundreds of people, including some from neighbouring countries, abandoned their homes and travelled to the site with personal belongings, raising serious security and humanitarian concerns.

For months, Ebo Noah shared videos on social media showing the construction of wooden structures, which he described as arks. He claimed they were the only means of survival for those who believed his message.

When the predicted flood failed to occur on Christmas Day, he released another video claiming that his prayers and fasting had caused God to delay the disaster.

Public outrage intensified after he appeared on stage at Sarkodie’s Rapperholic 2025 concert, where he told the crowd to celebrate because the doom had been postponed. The appearance triggered strong backlash on social media, with many accusing him of misleading the public and calling for his arrest.

The police have since reiterated that the ban on fake prophecies that cause fear and panic remains in force, especially ahead of December 31 Watch Night services. They warned that anyone who makes claims likely to create public anxiety will be dealt with according to the law.

The man who spent months stirring global anxiety with claims of visions involving a water apocalypse, Evans Eshun, popularly known as Ebo Noah, has been apprehended by the Ghana Police Service.

Police sources indicate that Ebo Noah was detained today, Wednesday, December 31, 2025, following a series of controversial events that began with a failed doomsday prediction on Christmas Day and ended with a bizarre appearance at a high-profile music concert.

Authorities have been particularly concerned by reports of hundreds of people—some travelling from neighbouring countries—abandoning their homes and arriving at his “ark site” with luggage, potentially creating a humanitarian and security crisis.

The ‘Flood of 2025’: A Prophecy That Fizzled

Ebo Noah first captured the world’s attention in August 2025, claiming he had received a divine mandate to build 10 modern-day arks to save humanity from a three-year global flood.

He insisted the rains would commence on December 25, 2025, mirroring the biblical deluge.

For months, his TikTok and YouTube channels were flooded with videos of the 30-year-old in tattered sackcloth, supervising the construction of wooden vessels.

He claimed to have purchased over 250,000 pieces of timber for the project, asserting that these arks were the “only refuge” for the faithful.

However, when Christmas Day passed with clear skies, the self-acclaimed prophet quickly pivoted.

In a viral video, he claimed his intercession and three-week fast had persuaded God to “postpone” the destruction.

From the Altar to the Stage: The Rapperholic Appearance

The situation took a turn for the surreal when Ebo Noah appeared on stage at rapper Sarkodie’s ‘Rapperholic 2025’ concert.

Dressed in his trademark robes, he urged thousands of fans to “party” because the doom had been delayed.

This public display of levity—after months of inducing fear—sparked a massive backlash on social media, with many calling for his immediate arrest for “deceiving the public”.

As the nation prepares for the December 31 Watch Night services, the police have reiterated that the ban against fake prophecies that cause fear and panic remains in effect.

Any prophet who issues declarations that could cause unnecessary exacerbation of tension or panic will face similar legal consequences.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Published:
Wednesday, 31 December 2025

The fixtures for the Round of 16 at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 have been set following a thrilling group stage campaign that highlighted the world-class quality of football on the continent.

The first knockout stage will be staged from Saturday, 3 January to Tuesday, 6 January, with two matches every day at 17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT and 20h00 local time / 19h00 local time as the remaining sides battle it out for a quarter-final place.  

Hosts Morocco face Tanzania at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat on Sunday (17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT) with an expectant crowd roaring them on as they seek a first continental title in 50 years.

Morocco topped Group A, with Tanzania qualifying as one of the four best third-placed sides out of Group C.

South Africa and Cameroon will lock horns later that same day at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat (20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT), pitting coach Hugo Broos against the side he led to the title in 2017.

Before those fixtures, 2021 winners Senegal take on Sudan on Saturday (17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT) in the first of the Round of 16 games at the Grand Stade de Tangier to kick-off the knockout phase.

Later that evening Mali tackle Tunisia (20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT) at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, with the former seeking a maiden continental crown and Tunisia looking to repeat their 2004 triumph.

Egypt are record seven-time winners of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON but have not lifted the trophy since 2010, a long wait for fans of the Pharaohs. They face Benin on Monday (17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT) at the Grand Stade de Agadir.

Later that evening Nigeria, among the most impressive sides in the group stages, will play Mozambique (20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT) at the Complexe Sportif de Fès as they seek to go one better than their silver medal finish at the 2023 edition. 

Algeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo meet on Tuesday (17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT) at the Stade Prince Heritier Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, before the round concludes in a meeting between defending champions Cote d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso (20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT) at the Grand Stade de Marrakech.

The quarter-finals will be played on 9-10 January, with the final scheduled for 18 January at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah.

TOTALENERGIES CAF AFCON MOROCCO 2025 ROUND OF 16 FIXTURES

Saturday, 3 January 2026
Senegal vs Sudan

17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT
Grand Stade de Tangier

Mali vs Tunisia

20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca

Sunday, 4 January 2026
Morocco vs Tanzania

17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT
Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah, Rabat

South Africa vs Cameroon

20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
Stade Al Medina, Rabat

Monday, 5 January 2026
Egypt vs Benin

17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT
Grand Stade de Agadir

Nigeria vs Mozambique

20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
Complexe Sportif de Fès

Tuesday, 6 January 2026
Algeria vs DR Congo

17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT
Stade Prince Heritier Moulay El Hassan, Rabat

Cote d’Ivoire vs Burkina Faso

20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
Grand Stade de Marrakech

For more information on the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, visit www.cafonline.com 

Further Inquiries:

[email protected]

CAF | Communication Department

The Ghana Police Service has announced comprehensive security arrangements across the country to ensure the safety of the public during activities marking Wednesday, December 31, as Ghanaians usher in the New Year.

Police personnel have been deployed, and patrols intensified in communities, major towns, entertainment centres, and along key highways to ensure safety and security while maintaining public order.

The Service noted that police visibility will be significantly heightened, particularly around areas expected to record increased human and vehicular movement. To ease traffic and reduce road crashes associated with the festive rush, traffic officers will be stationed at major intersections and along roads leading to watchnight services and social events.

According to the Police, special security arrangements have also been put in place at public gathering venues, including churches, event grounds and other locations anticipated to attract large crowds, as part of measures to prevent crime and respond swiftly to any incidents.

The Service calls on the public to cooperate fully with officers on duty, to remain vigilant, and to be each other’s keeper by looking out especially for neighbours who might not be at home.

The Police urged citizens to promptly report any suspicious activities to the police on 0302773906, 18555, 191, or 112 for immediate action.

The deployment comes as thousands of Ghanaians are expected to attend watchnight services across the country, with churches and public venues preparing for large gatherings to mark the transition into 2026.

The Ghana Police Service wished the public a safe, peaceful, and happy New Year.

The General Secretary of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has firmly rejected calls for President John Dramani Mahama to seek a third term in office, describing such proposals as driven by sycophancy.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Face to Face programme on Monday, December 16, Kwetey stated, “I think it is sycophancy, it is boot-licking of the highest order. It saddens me when I see so much sycophancy in our party. Some people seem to think that that is how you can survive as a politician, by praising somebody”.

He emphasized that President Mahama has never shown interest in pursuing a third term. “If you truly love this country and your party, you will not be engaging in that kind of sycophancy,” Kwetey said.

President Mahama, who won the December 2024 elections and was inaugurated in January 2025, is constitutionally limited to two terms under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution. This marks his second term as president, having previously served from 2012 to 2017. Any attempt to extend his tenure beyond two terms would require constitutional amendments.

Kwetey drew comparisons with the party’s founder, former President Jerry John Rawlings, noting that Rawlings was never pressured by party loyalists to pursue a third term despite his popularity. “The calls we are hearing today betray a lack of loyalty to both the party and the country,” he stated.

The comments come amid growing debate within the NDC over leadership succession and party discipline as attention gradually shifts to governance priorities and future leadership transitions.

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has warned that his caucus will block any attempt to introduce a third presidential term. Speaking at the close of Parliament’s third meeting, Afenyo-Markin accused the government of potentially exploring what he described as creative constitutional interpretation to extend executive power beyond its lawful limits.

“There will be no third term by stealth,” Afenyo-Markin said. “Not on our watch”.

Kwetey warned that excessive praise singing undermines internal democracy and weakens public trust in the party. “These are people who believe praise will earn them opportunities, but that is not what the NDC stands for,” he said.

The NDC General Secretary’s firm stance against third term discussions signals the party leadership’s commitment to constitutional governance and democratic succession, even as President Mahama begins his second term in office.

Ghana’s Constitution explicitly limits presidents to two four year terms, a provision introduced after the 1992 transition to constitutional rule. The limit has been respected by all presidents since the Fourth Republic began, with no successful attempts to amend this fundamental constitutional safeguard.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Simon Madjie, has called on Ghanaians living abroad to channel their remittances into productive investments to support national development.

He said diaspora remittances had outperformed foreign direct investment inflows and could have a stronger impact on the economy if properly directed.

Speaking at a Diaspora Summit under the theme “Resetting Ghana: The Diaspora as the 17th Region,” Mr Madjie highlighted GIPC’s diaspora investment framework, which provides institutional support, policy reforms, access to information, risk mitigation, and digital tools to simplify investment processes.

He noted the Centre’s Diaspora Desk, offering tailored information and advisory services, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Desk, which supports diaspora investors with opportunities under the AfCFTA.

Mr Madjie said Ghana offers access to a domestic market of about 34 million people, a West African market of over 400 million people, and a continental market of 1.4 billion people.

He also announced the removal of the minimum capital requirement for foreign investors and assured strong legal protections, including safeguards against discrimination and expropriation.

He identified priority sectors for diaspora investment as real estate, manufacturing, the creative industry, tourism and hospitality, ICT, healthcare, green industrialisation, climate-smart agriculture, and digital transformation.

Mr Madjie encouraged investors to explore opportunities beyond the Greater Accra Region and reiterated that the diaspora remains central to Ghana’s development agenda, saying the country is open for business.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

The event saw thousands fill the 40,000-seater capacity stadium

Ghanaians on social media have reacted with a mix of awe and admiration after videos and photos surfaced showing scores of Christians sleeping overnight at the Accra Sports Stadium ahead of the Alpha Hour Convocation led by Pastor Agyemang Elvis.

In what many have described as an unprecedented display of religious endurance, the stadium was transformed into a massive open-air sleeping camp on the eve of the highly anticipated prayer gathering.

As early as Monday evening, December 29, 2025, the perimeter and inner stands of the stadium were already teeming with “Alpharians” (devotees of the popular online prayer ministry), many of whom arrived with mats, sleeping bags and pillows to secure a spot for the programme.

The two-day Alpha Hour Convocation was scheduled for December 30 and 31, with the first session set to begin at 3:00 pm. However, long before the stage was fully set, worshippers had pitched camp inside the stadium, determined not to miss what they described as a historic moment.

By midnight, videos showed large sections of the stands carpeted with congregants, some clad in Alpha Hour-branded T-shirts.

While some slept, others gathered in small groups engaging in intense prayers, their voices echoing into the night. Some worshippers were also seen reading scriptures under the glow of their mobile phones.

The event itself was a success, with the stadium being full to capacity and thousands of worshippers having to camp at the car park and surrounding areas.

Photos and videos from the venue were also shared by the pastor on social media. In one post, he wrote: “JESUS IS STILL AT WORK. HE WILL CROSS OVER WITH US TONIGHT. If you were among those who were locked outside the stadium, don’t be perturbed. Jesus saw you and you will surely be amazed at what will happen in your life in Jesus’ name.”

Organisers expect even larger crowds on the second and final day of the convocation, with the crossover service anticipated to fill the 40,000-capacity Accra Sports Stadium to the brim.

The Alpha Hour Convocation marks a significant milestone for the ministry, which began as a midnight prayer livestream on YouTube and Facebook and has since grown into one of the most influential religious movements in Ghana, capable of filling the country’s largest venues.

Pastor Agyemang Elvis, founder of Grace Mountain Ministry, has throughout 2025 used the Alpha Hour platform to promote spiritual discipline, consistency and national transformation.

See the videos and pictures below:

JESUS IS STILL AT WORK. HE WILL CROSSOVER WITH US TONIGHT…

If you were among those who were locked outside the stadium, dont be perturbed. Jesus saw you and you will be surely amazed of what will happen in your life in Jesus name.#AlphaHour #PastorElvis… pic.twitter.com/PLZgzoQQmE

— Pastor Elvis Agyemang (@REAgyemang) December 31, 2025

Day 1: Alpha Hour Convocation with Pastor Elvis Agyemang pic.twitter.com/4SZvbUe7N0

— 𝕏 Ghana 🇬🇭 (@xghana_) December 31, 2025

This is not a football match or a music concert, this is Alpha Hour Convocation, Jesus keeps winning back to back💫 pic.twitter.com/nX7lNG2AvY

— Miss ADEL🦋🦚🌹 (@a_derll) December 31, 2025

At the endGOD WAS GLORIFIED🙇🏾🙌🏾…not Pastor Elvis, not Alpha Hour but GOD WAS GLORIFIED 🥳🙇🏾🙇🏾🏟#AlphaHourConvocation pic.twitter.com/CGCfaGFH61

— Alpha Hour Convocation 🧎🏾‍♂️🙇🏾🥁🪘🙏🏾 (@Pkay_4real_) December 31, 2025

ID/BAI

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has confirmed that DSTV’s recently introduced enhanced value packages will remain in effect following a review by a stakeholder committee set up by the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation. In a press release on December 31, 2025, the NCA said the committee, chaired by the sector minister, evaluated DSTV pricing after the enhanced packages were implemented on October 1, 2025.

“The Committee noted that the enhanced value packages were duly implemented as announced and remain in force,” the statement said, adding that subscribers responded positively to the changes. According to the NCA, the value adjustments led to a “significant increase in subscriptions” among DSTV users in Ghana.

The agreement, effective October 1, 2025, saw subscribers automatically upgraded to higher tier bouquets at their current subscription rates. The arrangement was initially scheduled to remain in effect until December 2025, with a parliamentary committee scheduled to reevaluate its impact in three months.

Under the compromise, subscribers across all tiers received upgraded bouquets: Paddy subscribers (GH¢59) moved up to Access, gaining 35 additional channels; Access subscribers (GH¢99) moved up to Family; Family subscribers (GH¢190) moved up to Compact (valued at GH¢380), gaining 22 more channels and access to live football matches; Compact subscribers (GH¢380) moved up to Compact Plus (GH¢570), gaining 12 additional channels; and Compact Plus subscribers (GH¢570) moved up to Premium (GH¢865), receiving 18 additional channels.

The committee also highlighted concerns over illegal internet streaming. The NCA said it is collaborating with other agencies, including the Cybersecurity Authority, to tackle piracy, which poses risks to tax revenue, the creative industry, and consumers’ security.

According to the statement, pay television piracy leads to losses in tax revenue, reduced earnings for the creative industry, and exposes consumers to cyber threats such as malware and phishing.

The resolution marked a significant shift in position for Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George, who had initially demanded at least a 30% price reduction for Ghanaian subscribers and threatened to suspend MultiChoice’s operating license by September 6 if the company failed to comply.

The DStv pricing issue emerged against a backdrop of economic challenges in Ghana, including inflation and currency volatility. MultiChoice had implemented two price increases in 2024 followed by another 15% hike in April 2025, placing additional strain on households already reprioritising expenses.

The Authority assured the public that ongoing engagement with stakeholders will continue to ensure the objectives of the review process are fully achieved. The statement was issued by the NCA on behalf of the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, who chairs the DSTV Pricing Stakeholder Committee.

The announcement confirms that the enhanced value packages, which were initially presented as a three month trial, will continue beyond the December 2025 review period, providing certainty to subscribers who have benefited from the upgraded services.

Dutch side NAC Breda have announced the signing of veteran striker Andre Ayew on a free transfer, signing him until the end of the 2025 to 2026 season with an option to extend. The 36 year old joins the Eredivisie outfit as they fight to avoid relegation, currently sitting at the bottom of the table with 13 points from 17 matches.

Ayew stated regarding his transfer to Breda, “I’m someone who really enjoys challenges, both personally and as part of a team. I find that here at NAC. I want to do everything I can to help the club and my teammates. We’re in a situation where staying in the Eredivisie is the only thing that matters. The mental aspect is perhaps the most important thing in this situation. Together with our supporters, we must fight this battle head on in the second half of the season”.

Ayew had been without a club since last summer. He played his last competitive matches at Le Havre in May 2025. In the meantime, Ayew maintained his fitness at Nania FC, owned by his father and African football legend Abedi Pele.

Technical Director Peter Maas explained Ayew’s arrival, stating, “Andre is eager to help NAC in their fight for survival. That’s become very clear from our conversations. We’re currently in a difficult position with NAC. Ayew has also faced some tough times in his career. He’s a true sportsman who takes good care of himself. We believe that with his experience and specific qualities, he can be of value to NAC right now”.

Over nearly 600 appearances across the Champions League, Ligue 1, Ligue 2, Premier League, Championship, and Turkish Super Lig, Ayew has scored more than 160 goals. On the international stage, he has earned over 120 caps for Ghana, netting 24 goals.

The former Black Stars captain boasts an impressive career, having made his mark at Olympique de Marseille, Swansea City, and West Ham United. During his first stint at Marseille between 2007 and 2015, Ayew scored 60 goals. In England, he recorded 47 goals for Swansea City and added 12 goals during his time at West Ham United.

Ghana head coach Otto Addo has not closed the door on Ayew, but the dynamics within the national team have changed since Addo began his second stint in February 2024. The 36 year old has not been recalled during that period, while the captain’s armband has been passed to his younger brother, Jordan Ayew, signaling a clear shift in leadership and long term planning.

Ayew has been absent from recent squads, reflecting the technical team’s focus on youth. Despite this, Ayew’s pedigree remains unmatched with over 120 caps, 24 goals, multiple Africa Cup of Nations appearances, and three FIFA World Cups. His tournament nous could prove invaluable as Ghana gears up for the 2026 World Cup, facing tough opponents like England, Croatia, and Panama.

Regular minutes and strong performances in the Eredivisie could strengthen his case, whether as a starter or an experienced squad option. At the same time, Ghana may also decide to move forward without him, trusting a new core to carry the team through the tournament.

Ayew joins head coach Carl Hoefkens’ squad immediately. NAC will resume training on Friday, January 2, at the BO Infra Training Complex in Zundert.