Freetown, September 17, 2026 — The Ministry of Sports and the National Sports Authority (NSA) have suspended all community and school football competitions in the Western Area with immediate effect.
The decision follows a stakeholders’ meeting held on September 16 at the Office of National Security (ONS) to address recent incidents of violence and hooliganism associated with football activities.
According to the Ministry, some incidents involving supporters of community football competitions, including those organised by the Central One Football Association (COFA), resulted in loss of life and the destruction of property worth millions of Leones.
The Ministry said the suspension will remain in place until further notice. Organisers have been directed to comply, while security agencies will enforce the ban.
A technical committee has also been established to review and develop regulations and guidelines for monitoring football activities before the suspension is lifted.
The Ministry clarified that the ban does not cover football played among friends for recreational purposes.