NSA Deletes Over 2,000 Ghost Names, Saves GH¢1 Million – GhArticles.com

The National Service Authority (NSA) has successfully removed more than 2,000 ghost names from its payroll, a move expected to save the state over GH¢1 million.

Announcing the development, NSA Director-General Felix Gyamfi stated that the exercise forms part of wider efforts to curb fraud and boost transparency within the National Service Scheme.

He added that service personnel data will now be shared with the Controller and Accountant General’s Department to prevent duplicate payments and unauthorized enrollments.

“If you’re already on another government payroll—be it police, military, or immigration—and you’re undertaking national service only to receive additional allowances, do not submit your forms this month,” Gyamfi cautioned. “We are collaborating with the NIB and other security agencies, and those found guilty of fraud will face legal action.”

The announcement follows a directive by President John Dramani Mahama for a comprehensive investigation into payroll anomalies, after 81,885 suspected ghost names were uncovered on the NSA payroll.

This massive irregularity came to light during a nationwide headcount of active service personnel and was first reported by The Fourth Estate in November 2024.

Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine earlier revealed that former NSA directors linked to the scandal will face formal charges by early May.

The payroll audit, initiated by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, also aims to resolve outstanding allowance arrears dating back to August 2024.

Former Executive Director of the NSA, Osei Assibey Antwi, was recently interrogated by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) over his alleged role in the fraud, following an official invitation and legal representation.