The Ghana Retired Footballers Welfare Association has officially been launched in Tema, with a strong commitment from the government to prioritize the welfare of retired athletes. Speaking on behalf of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Daniel Titus Glover, assured that should Dr. Bawumia assume the presidency, his administration would make the well-being of retired sports professionals a key focus.
At the event, Titus Glover praised the efforts of One God Forever Limited, whose collaboration with the Vice President’s office resulted in the establishment of the welfare association. He emphasized that this initiative will not only improve the lives of former footballers but also inspire current players to give their all, knowing that their future welfare is secure.
“Dr. Bawumia is committed to implementing policies that will uplift the lives of our athletes, not just footballers, but all those who have given their best for the nation. We urge all athletes to trust in his vision for a better future,” Titus Glover stated.
The Ghana Retired Footballers Welfare Association, spearheaded by Mohammed Elias, CEO of One God Forever Limited and a former footballer himself, was born out of the troubling conditions many retired players face. Elias highlighted the hardship many of these players endure after their careers, noting that this has discouraged many parents from supporting their children’s pursuit of football.
“The plight of our retired footballers has been a serious concern. Many of them struggle with basic needs, which in turn dissuades families from allowing their children to pursue football. This initiative is our way of ensuring that these veterans are not forgotten,” Elias explained.
The launch, held in Tema Newtown, saw the participation of numerous celebrated former Ghanaian footballers, including Eben Dida, Joe Tagoe (Bobbie Short), James Nanor, Ali Jarah, and former Kotoko stalwarts Francis Coffie, Jordan Opoku, and Clement Coffie. Many of the ex-footballers present expressed their gratitude to the government and One God Forever Limited, hailing the initiative as a significant step toward improving their livelihoods.
The association’s mission includes providing healthcare support, monthly stipends, and other benefits to retired footballers aged 50 and above. In addition, members will enjoy free access to all Premier League and national football matches, sponsored by the association.
Plans are underway to establish offices in all 16 regions of Ghana to register members and ensure that no retired player is left behind. This move is expected to offer long-term support to those who have contributed immensely to Ghana’s football legacy.
With this launch, the future looks brighter for retired footballers in Ghana, as the association aims to restore dignity and offer the necessary support to those who have given their all for the nation’s football.