Accra, Ghana – The National Service Authority (NSA) has firmly denied recent allegations of payroll fraud and the inclusion of “ghost names” in its system. In a press release issued on December 16, 2024, the Authority described the claims as “baseless and unfounded,” reaffirming its commitment to accountability and transparency.

Advanced Measures to Curb Fraud

Since 2021, the NSA has implemented robust electronic measures to enhance checks and balances in the mobilization and deployment of National Service Personnel. These measures include facial verification, Ghana Card integration, and institution-based eligibility checks. According to the NSA, these systems have saved the country over 300 million cedis between 2021 and 2024.

The integration of the Ghana Card has enabled the NSA to accurately identify service personnel and eliminate the possibility of duplicate or fictitious identities. The facial verification system, which matches the faces of service personnel with their identification documents, ensures that only legitimate individuals are included in the payroll. These innovations have significantly reduced the risk of fraud and ensured that public funds are used efficiently.

Support from Key Stakeholders

The Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, and other key stakeholders have concrete evidence of the gains achieved through these systems. The NSA’s Director-General, Osei Assibey Antwi, highlighted that these measures demonstrate the Authority’s dedication to maintaining a transparent and accountable operation. “We have introduced these electronic systems to ensure that every pesewa of public funds is used for the intended purpose,” Antwi stated.

While acknowledging that no system is completely immune to breaches, the NSA stressed that attempted fraud has been significantly reduced. The Authority emphasized that it continuously monitors and updates its systems to address any potential vulnerabilities and to stay ahead of fraudulent schemes.

Emergency Meeting and Investigation

The Governing Board of the NSA held an emergency meeting on December 12, 2024, where it engaged the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) to probe the allegations. The Board stated that no concrete evidence had been presented to support the claims so far. Additionally, the Authority confirmed that a petition had been submitted by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) and The Fourth Estate to the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

Public Reaction and Call for Restraint

The NSA urged the public to exercise restraint in their commentary on the matter, warning against rushing to condemn individuals before investigations are complete. “The harm caused to individuals found innocent after such accusations can be irreparable,” the release stated. The Authority called on the media and the public to allow the investigation to proceed without prejudgment and to respect the due process of law.

Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

Reaffirming its mission, the NSA assured the public that it remains committed to protecting national resources and ensuring they are used responsibly. “We remain resolute in serving Ghana with integrity, transparency, and accountability,” said Osei Assibey Antwi, Director-General of the National Service Authority. He added that the Authority would cooperate fully with the NIB and any other investigative bodies to ensure that the truth is uncovered and that the integrity of the NSA is maintained.

The NSA also highlighted its continuous efforts to improve its systems and processes. Regular audits, staff training, and the implementation of best practices are part of the Authority’s strategy to uphold high standards of operation. These measures, coupled with the robust electronic systems, are designed to prevent any form of fraud and ensure the effective management of resources.

Looking Ahead

The NSA’s proactive stance in addressing these allegations reflects its commitment to maintaining public trust and confidence. By engaging independent investigative bodies and cooperating with stakeholders, the Authority aims to demonstrate its transparency and accountability. The outcome of the investigations will be crucial in either substantiating the NSA’s claims or addressing any identified issues.

The National Service Authority’s denial of ‘ghost names’ and payroll fraud allegations underscores its commitment to transparency and accountability. The implementation of advanced electronic measures has significantly reduced the risk of fraud, and the Authority’s proactive approach to investigating these claims reflects its dedication to maintaining the integrity of its operations. As the investigation proceeds, the NSA’s efforts to ensure the responsible use of public funds remain a priority.