Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, believes Kurt Okraku has the potential to rise to the presidency of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) if he remains committed and focused in his new role.
Okraku was appointed Second Vice President of CAF over the weekend during an Executive Committee meeting held in Accra.
In an interview with Graphic Sports, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe commended the GFA President for his elevation and urged him to prioritize CAF’s broader objectives over personal ambition.
He cautioned, however, that any deviation from this path could jeopardize his progress.
“I think it’s good news for Ghana soccer. Like Kwasi Nyantakyi, who raised Ghana’s image to a very high level within CAF and FIFA circles, I believe if Kurt really works hard, he might even become the CAF President,” Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe stated.
“Integrity and hard work will determine whether he can reach the CAF seat and eventually the FIFA level.”
He emphasized that integrity and diligence would be key to Okraku’s advancement, potentially even to roles at the global level within FIFA.
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe also called on Okraku to use his new position to champion the interests of both Ghanaian and African football, while creating opportunities for more Ghanaians to assume leadership roles within the continental body.
Reflecting on the impact of former GFA President Kwasi Nyantakyi, he noted that despite his eventual controversies, Nyantakyi laid a strong foundation for Ghanaian football administrators on the African stage.
“My successor, Kwasi Nyantakyi — if he hadn’t encountered difficulties — would have been in very high positions, not only in Africa but globally. He left an indelible mark at CAF, and that has paved the way for Kurt,” he explained.
“Kwasi performed excellently; he knew football. I worked with him and can testify to his knowledge. His achievements pushed Ghana forward, and Kurt is now benefiting from that legacy.”
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe concluded by advising Okraku to lead with fairness, transparency, and firmness, ensuring that his influence benefits football locally, continentally, and globally.
“I pray that Kurt does everything properly — be firm and fair — and ensures that football is served not only in Africa but around the world,” he said.
Kurt Okraku currently also serves as the WAFU Zone B President.