Don’t Use Taxpayer Money for World Cup Travel – Edem Agbana Tells Government

Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Edem Agbana, has called on the Government of Ghana to refrain from using public funds to sponsor supporters to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stressing that the country must prioritise critical national needs.

Speaking in a recent media interview, the lawmaker warned that using taxpayers’ money to facilitate travel for football fans would not be a prudent use of the nation’s limited financial resources. According to him, government expenditure should focus on programmes and initiatives that directly improve the lives of citizens.

Agbana acknowledged the unifying power of football and its importance to Ghana’s national identity. However, he insisted that the current economic realities require careful and responsible spending decisions.

“Government must prioritise the needs of the people,” he indicated, adding that funds should instead be directed toward sectors such as education, healthcare, job creation, and infrastructure development.

The MP suggested that individuals who wish to attend the tournament abroad should make private arrangements rather than rely on financial support from the state. He also encouraged corporate organisations and private sponsors to support sports initiatives if they wish to promote fan participation in international competitions.

His remarks come at a time when discussions have emerged about potential government support for Ghanaian supporters should the Black Stars qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

The tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time three countries will stage the global football event.

Agbana emphasised that government support for sports should focus primarily on strengthening Ghana’s sporting infrastructure, developing young talent, and ensuring the national teams are adequately prepared for international competitions.

He concluded that responsible financial management requires the government to carefully evaluate its spending priorities, particularly in an environment where many citizens continue to face economic hardship.