ACCRA, Ghana — Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has said it is up to Ghanaian football fans to determine whether his career achievements have earned him legendary status after officially retiring from professional football.
Speaking about how he wishes to be remembered, Ghana’s all-time leading scorer said he no longer wants to judge his own legacy, insisting that responsibility belongs to supporters who followed his career over the years.
Asamoah Gyan Leaves Legendary Status Debate to Ghanaian Fans After Retirement 2
“Right now, I leave it to the fans because I am retired. They have to decide whether I made it or not.”
Gyan acknowledged that not everyone supported him during his playing days, noting that criticism was part of his career. However, he believes many people now better appreciate his contribution to Ghana football.
“When I was playing, of course, there were people who didn’t like me. They didn’t even want to see me on the field. But now that I’m home, and my career is over, they understand the kind of person I was.”
The former striker officially announced his retirement from football in June 2023 after a professional career spanning more than two decades. During that time, he became Ghana’s all-time leading scorer with 51 goals in 109 international appearances, represented the Black Stars at three FIFA World Cups, and remains Africa’s highest-scoring player in World Cup history with six goals.
Widely known as “Baby Jet,” Gyan enjoyed successful spells with clubs in Ghana, Italy, France, England, the United Arab Emirates, China, Turkey and India, establishing himself as one of Africa’s most celebrated footballers.
While debates over his place among Ghana’s greatest footballers continue, Gyan believes the final verdict belongs to the fans who watched his journey.
ACCRA, Ghana — The General Manager for Sustainability and Shared Value at MTN Ghana, Georgina A. Fiagbenu, has called on Ghanaian youth to develop practical skills, embrace innovation and cultivate discipline as the country prepares for an increasingly competitive global future.
SKILLS TODAY, SUCCESS TOMORROW
Speaking at the 2026 National Youth Mentorship Summit held at the University of Ghana, Mrs Fiagbenu said Ghana’s future prosperity will depend largely on how well young people prepare themselves to seize emerging opportunities and contribute meaningfully to national development.
She noted that Africa’s rapidly growing youthful population represents one of the continent’s greatest assets, but stressed that this demographic advantage can only translate into economic transformation if young people are equipped with the right knowledge, skills and mindset.
Addressing hundreds of students, she encouraged participants to look beyond academic qualifications and intentionally develop practical competencies, integrity, creativity and a strong work ethic.
According to Mrs Fiagbenu, today’s labour market increasingly rewards individuals who can solve problems, adapt to changing environments and consistently deliver value.
“We don’t have enough prepared youth. There are many opportunities available. People are looking for good people and great people to work with, but they are sometimes disappointed because applicants are simply not prepared,” she said.
She explained that while governments and private institutions continue creating employment opportunities, young people must equally take responsibility for preparing themselves through continuous learning and professional development.
Mrs Fiagbenu stressed that employers now value critical thinking, communication skills, teamwork and innovation alongside academic qualifications.
Reflecting on her own career journey, she disclosed that many opportunities came through the reputation she built for competence, excellence and reliability rather than through numerous job applications.
She therefore encouraged students to remain prepared at all times because career opportunities often arise unexpectedly through referrals, professional networks and demonstrated performance.
Mrs Fiagbenu also urged young people to shift their mindset from merely seeking employment to identifying challenges within their communities and creating innovative solutions capable of generating sustainable businesses and jobs.
According to her, entrepreneurship should focus on solving real societal problems while creating lasting impact rather than pursuing financial rewards alone.
She further highlighted discipline, integrity and responsible behaviour as essential qualities that distinguish exceptional professionals and future leaders.
Expressing concern over persistent acts of indiscipline, including poor sanitation habits, she said such behaviours undermine national development and damage Ghana’s international image.
Mrs Fiagbenu also advised students to maximise technology and digital platforms by learning new skills, improving their knowledge and building their personal capacities instead of spending excessive time on entertainment.
She concluded by encouraging Ghanaian youth to become lifelong learners who embrace innovation and remain committed to continuous self-improvement, insisting that the country’s future will ultimately be shaped by a generation that is disciplined, innovative and adequately prepared.
The Executive Director of LEC Group and organiser of the summit, Albert Kusi, said the Success Africa initiative has impacted more than 400,000 young people across nearly 100 educational institutions over the past two decades.
He explained that the mentorship programme was established to bridge the gap between classroom education and industry expectations by equipping students with practical employability, leadership and entrepreneurship skills.
Mr Kusi revealed that the 2026 National Youth Mentorship Summit marked the grand finale of a 13-campus nationwide mentorship tour that began in February and engaged thousands of tertiary students across Ghana.
The summit, organised by LEC Group in partnership with the Success Africa Foundation under the theme “Youth Innovation & Wealth Creation: Shaping Ghana’s Future,” brought together students, entrepreneurs, business executives and professionals to discuss leadership, innovation, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.
The event received support from MTN Ghana, InvestCorp, UBA, Prudential Bank, ACCA, Malta Guinness and Skytech Ghana, reflecting continued private sector investment in developing Ghana’s next generation of innovators and business leaders.
A UK-based Ghanaian has reportedly died after suffering severe burns during a prayer session in Kasoa, Central Region, in a case that has sparked public concern and renewed calls for justice.
The deceased, identified as Atta Sarfo Kessie, was reportedly 47 years old. According to multiple Ghanaian media reports, he sustained serious burn injuries during a prayer session at Faith Glory Evangelistic Ministry in Kasoa before being admitted for medical treatment.
UK-based Ghanaian dies after burns sustained during Kasoa prayer session.
Despite efforts by medical personnel, Kessie reportedly succumbed to his injuries about a week later. Reports indicate that he was a retired British Army officer who later worked with Transport for London (TfL) in the United Kingdom.
The incident has attracted significant public attention following reports that the founder of the church, Pastor Henry Nana Yeboah, was arrested in connection with the case before later being granted bail. Authorities are continuing their investigations while the matter awaits advice from the Attorney-General’s Department.
Relatives of the deceased have appealed to law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough investigation and accountability if any criminal wrongdoing is established.
The case has also generated widespread discussion across Ghana, with many calling for greater safety and accountability during religious activities.
Police investigations remain ongoing, and no court has determined criminal liability regarding the incident.
A quote widely circulating on social media and attributed to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has sparked intense public discussion about the responsibility of churches in supporting their congregations.
Tinubu’s Church Comment Sparks Debate Across Nigeria 6
The viral graphic claims Tinubu said:
“Before I was born, there was hunger. Let your churches feed you, that’s why you’re a member.”
The statement has generated thousands of reactions online, with many Nigerians debating whether religious organizations should play a greater role in providing food and financial support to vulnerable members.
Supporters argue that faith-based institutions have long been involved in charity and community welfare, while critics believe addressing hunger remains primarily the responsibility of government through effective economic policies and social intervention programmes.
At the time of publication, readers are encouraged to consider the broader context of the reported remarks and any official clarification where available.
The discussion comes amid ongoing concerns over the rising cost of living, food prices, and economic hardship affecting many households across Nigeria.
Showboy Faces Backlash Over Remarks About Peller’s Wife
Ghanaian musician Showboy has become the center of a social media storm after making controversial comments about the wife of popular Nigerian streamer Peller.
Viral collage showing Ghanaian musician Showboy alongside Nigerian streamer Peller and his wife, Jarvis, amid an online controversy.
According to screenshots and videos circulating online, Showboy allegedly criticized Jarvis’ appearance, claiming that Peller could have married “a more beautiful woman in Nigeria” if he had taken more time before settling down.
The remarks quickly spread across social media platforms, triggering mixed reactions from fans in both Ghana and Nigeria.
Fans Defend Jarvis
Many social media users condemned Showboy’s comments, describing them as disrespectful and unnecessary. Others defended Jarvis, praising her confidence and criticizing attempts to judge women based on their physical appearance.
Supporters of Peller also rallied behind the couple, urging critics to respect their marriage and personal choices.
Debate Continues Online
While some internet users argued that Showboy was merely expressing his opinion, others insisted that public figures should be more responsible with their words, especially when discussing another person’s spouse.
As of publication, neither Peller nor Jarvis has publicly responded to the latest viral comments.
The incident has once again highlighted how quickly celebrity opinions can ignite heated debates across African social media.
Twin Falls, Idaho (USA) — A mass shooting in the busy commercial district of Twin Falls, Idaho, has left three victims dead and seven others injured, while the suspected gunman was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to authorities. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon near a newly opened In-N-Out Burger restaurant and surrounding businesses.
Multiple Killed in Twin Falls, Idaho Mass Shooting; Gunman Dies at Scene 9
Police said the suspected shooter, identified as 24-year-old Chad Williams, acted alone. Officers responded after reports of gunfire erupted in the crowded area, sending customers, employees and motorists fleeing for safety. Authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public as investigators continue processing the scene.
Among those killed was an employee of the In-N-Out restaurant. The company expressed condolences to the victims’ families and said it is cooperating fully with law enforcement as the investigation continues. The identities of the victims have not yet been publicly released pending family notification.
Officials said an off-duty Idaho State Police trooper and an armed civilian confronted the suspect during the attack, exchanging gunfire and helping interrupt the shooting. Police believe their actions likely prevented additional casualties.
Authorities have not established a motive for the attack. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies are assisting with the investigation, while detectives continue reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. Police have also urged the public not to spread misinformation circulating on social media regarding the suspect’s identity or motive.
The shooting has shocked the Twin Falls community, with local officials describing it as one of the most chaotic and devastating incidents the city has experienced. Support services have been made available for victims, witnesses and affected families.
Read more breaking international stories in our World News section.
Follow the latest developing stories on our GhanaNews.org homepage.
The MTN Ghana Foundation has announced that it received an impressive 5,282 applications for the 2026 edition of its flagship Bright Scholarship Programme, demonstrating the continued confidence Ghanaian youth have in MTN’s commitment to expanding access to quality education.
MTN Ghana Foundation Receives 5,282 Applications for 2026 Bright Scholarship Programme, Reinforcing Youth Confidence in Education Support 11
The application window, which ran from 1 March to 31 May 2026, attracted thousands of brilliant but financially challenged students from across Ghana seeking support to pursue tertiary education.
The Bright Scholarship Programme remains one of the MTN Ghana Foundation’s flagship educational interventions, aimed at removing financial barriers to higher education. The scholarship package covers tuition fees, accommodation, learning materials stipend, and other academic-related expenses throughout the beneficiaries’ course of study.
Commenting on the overwhelming response, MTN Ghana’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Adwoa Wiafe, said the high number of applications reflects the trust young Ghanaians continue to place in the Foundation.
“The 5,282 applications received this year are a strong testament to the confidence Ghanaian youth have in MTN Ghana and the MTN Ghana Foundation. We are encouraged that the Bright Scholarship Programme continues to serve as a beacon of hope for many talented young people seeking to pursue higher education despite financial challenges.”
She further emphasized that while it would not be possible to support every applicant, the Foundation remains committed to a transparent and credible selection process.
“Although we are unable to support every applicant, we remain committed to a transparent, fair, and credible selection process that identifies students with outstanding academic potential and genuine financial need. Education remains one of the most sustainable investments we can make in the future of our country.”
According to Adwoa Wiafe, the interview and assessment phase will commence nationwide in August 2026. Following the assessments, 500 scholarships will be awarded in October 2026 for the 2026/2027 academic year.
The Foundation says the Bright Scholarship Programme continues to invest in Ghana’s future by empowering academically gifted students to achieve their educational aspirations while contributing meaningfully to national development.
The MTN Bright Scholarship Programme was first launched in 2018, fulfilling a commitment MTN made during the celebration of its 20th anniversary in 2016. At the time, MTN pledged to award 300 scholarships over three years through the MTN Ghana Foundation. Following the programme’s success and impact, it was renewed in 2021 as part of MTN Ghana’s 25th anniversary celebrations.
Since its establishment in November 2007, the MTN Ghana Foundation has served as MTN Ghana’s vehicle for Corporate Social Investments, focusing on Health, Education and Economic Empowerment.
To date, the Foundation has successfully undertaken 166 major projects nationwide, including:
90 Education Projects
55 Health Care Projects
15 Economic Empowerment Projects
6 Community Support Initiatives
The continued expansion of the Bright Scholarship Programme reflects MTN Ghana Foundation’s long-term commitment to investing in Ghana’s human capital through education and creating opportunities for deserving students nationwide.
Students and readers can also explore our Ghana Explains section for education-related guides and policy explainers.
The MTN Ghana Foundation was established in November 2007 as the vehicle responsible for selecting and implementing MTN Ghana’s Corporate Social Investment initiatives. The Foundation focuses on Health, Education and Economic Empowerment. Since inception, it has implemented 166 major projects across Ghana, comprising 90 education projects, 55 healthcare projects, 15 economic empowerment projects and six community support initiatives.
Ghana’s daily minimum wage has increased to GH¢21.77 for 2026, but many workers believe the adjustment still falls far short of what is needed to live with dignity.
The National Tripartite Committee approved a 9% increase from the previous GH¢19.97 daily rate, with the new wage taking effect on January 1, 2026. While the increase has been welcomed by labour groups, many argue it does little to offset the growing cost of food, transport, rent, healthcare, utilities and education.
Ghana’s Minimum Wage Crisis: Why Workers Need a Living Wage, Not Just a Minimum Wage 15
At the current rate, a worker earning the minimum wage for approximately 27 working days receives about GH¢588 per month. In cities such as Accra and Kumasi, where living costs continue to rise, labour advocates argue that this income is insufficient to cover even the most basic household expenses.
The debate has therefore shifted beyond annual wage adjustments to a broader discussion about adopting a living wage framework. Such a system would determine wages based on the actual cost of maintaining a reasonable standard of living rather than setting only a legal minimum.
Ghana’s Minimum Wage Crisis: Why Workers Need a Living Wage, Not Just a Minimum Wage 16
According to labour organisations, employment should provide financial security rather than force workers to choose between transportation, food, rent or healthcare. The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has consistently advocated policies that consider housing, education, healthcare and transportation when determining workers’ pay.
Supporters of higher wages argue that improving workers’ purchasing power can strengthen domestic economic activity, while business groups caution that sharp wage increases may place additional pressure on small and medium-sized enterprises already facing high operating costs.
Economic analysts say any long-term wage policy should be accompanied by measures that reduce inflation, improve productivity, support businesses and strengthen enforcement of labour laws. Without addressing the broader cost of living, annual wage increases alone may continue to lose value over time.
Ghana’s Minimum Wage Crisis: Why Workers Need a Living Wage, Not Just a Minimum Wage 17
For many Ghanaians, the debate is no longer simply about increasing the minimum wage but ensuring that full-time employment provides enough income to live with dignity. As the conversation continues, policymakers face growing calls to balance economic growth with the welfare of the country’s workforce.
For more background on economic policy, visit Government Tracker. Read explanatory reports in Ghana Explains for additional analysis on labour and economic issues.
UEFA is reportedly preparing legal action against FIFA President Gianni Infantino following the collapse of a controversial proposal to sell a minority stake in a commercial entity linked to the FIFA World Cup.
UEFA Prepares Legal Action Against FIFA President Gianni Infantino Over World Cup Controversy 19
According to multiple reports, UEFA has sent a formal legal preservation letter instructing Infantino to retain all documents, communications, and evidence related to the proposed transaction. The move signals that legal proceedings could follow after FIFA abandoned the plan amid widespread opposition.
The proposal would have created a new commercial subsidiary managing FIFA competitions, with a minority stake offered to private investors. UEFA strongly opposed the idea, arguing that football’s governance and major competitions should not be commercialized in this manner.
Reports also suggest the dispute has evolved into a broader leadership crisis for Infantino. UEFA, CONCACAF, and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have publicly criticized his leadership, while discussions about a potential challenge to his presidency have intensified ahead of FIFA’s next presidential election.
However, there has been no official announcement that Infantino has resigned or been removed from office, and any potential vote of no confidence or leadership change remains speculative at this stage.
The controversy marks one of the most significant governance disputes in world football in recent years and could have major implications for FIFA’s leadership and future commercial strategy.
Member of the NPP Legal Directorate, Ross Owusu Esq., has alleged that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) deliberately fast-tracked the extradition of former MASLOC Chief Executive Officer Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu to Ghana with the intention of ultimately securing her release.
Ross Owusu Alleges NDC Fast-Tracked Sedina Tamakloe’s Extradition to Secure Her Release 21
Speaking during an interview on Starr FM, Ross Owusu argued that the sequence of events surrounding the extradition process and the subsequent Court of Appeal ruling has raised serious questions about the handling of the case. According to him, the circumstances deserve greater public scrutiny and a clear explanation from the authorities.
The comments come amid heightened political debate following the Court of Appeal’s decision to acquit Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu. The ruling has generated mixed reactions, with members of both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) expressing sharply contrasting views over the prosecution and the outcome of the case.
Ross Owusu maintained that the timing of the extradition and the eventual court decision warrant further examination, insisting that the public deserves transparency on the processes involved.
As of the time of publication, the government has not publicly responded to the specific allegations made by Ross Owusu. The claims therefore remain allegations and have not been independently verified.
Read more political developments through our Government Tracker and follow related legal developments in our Crime & Justice section.
