President Mahama orders probe into National Service Authority ghost names scandal

Accra, Ghana – February 12, 2025: President John Dramani Mahama has directed the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) to launch an immediate probe into the operations of the National Service Authority following the discovery of 81,885 suspected ghost names on the institution’s payroll under the previous administration.

The revelation emerged after a headcount of active National Service personnel was conducted at the request of the Minister for Finance as a prerequisite for clearing arrears dating back to August 2024.

The exercise exposed a significant discrepancy between the number of personnel reported and those actually in service.

According to the Presidency, the Ministry of Finance has since released GHS 226,019,224 to cover the outstanding allowances of 98,145 verified National Service personnel.

This figure is 81,885 lower than the 180,030 names submitted by the Authority’s previous management for payment in 2024, raising concerns about financial irregularities.

In response, President Mahama has instructed the newly appointed management of the National Service Authority to implement urgent reforms aimed at preventing a recurrence of ghost names on the payroll.

The government is determined to establish stricter control measures to safeguard public funds.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, assured the public that those found culpable would face the full rigors of the law.

This development marks a renewed government effort to enhance transparency and accountability in state institutions.