Nathaniel Johnson eyes GOC Board role to champion transparency and federation empowerment

As the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) prepares for its highly anticipated Elective Congress on April 26, 2025, one candidate is positioning himself as a voice of reform, transparency and grassroots empowerment. 

Nathaniel Johnson, President of the Ghana Karate-Do Federation, is contesting for one of three co-opted member slots on the new GOC Board, bringing with him a strong track record of hands-on leadership and a passion for institutional accountability.

In an exclusive interview, Mr. Johnson made it clear that his ambition is not driven by prestige, but by a desire to inject a new level of responsibility and vision into the GOC. “Looking at the impact I made in karate, I think that if even 50% of that is brought to the GOC, we will go far,” he stated. “Currently, they don't have money to push themselves. Even sourcing sponsorships is a struggle. We need stronger hands.”

Mr. Johnson, who took over leadership of the Ghana Karate-Do Federation in February 2023, lamented the limited support and engagement federations receive from the GOC. “Since I assumed office, the GOC has not once requested updates on karate's performance or operations. How then do you make informed decisions?” he questioned. “Without accurate records, the GOC cannot deliver meaningful direction to member federations.”

Citing his decision to contest, Johnson said he was initially uninterested in running. However, his observations at the last congress changed his mind. “After seeing how things were going, I realised the GOC needs people who can speak up. I'm not a quiet person — I argue when needed so that the right thing is done. That's the kind of leadership we need.”

One of his main priorities is to make the GOC more transparent and responsive. “After every board meeting, the media should receive the minutes. That way, national federations can know what decisions are being made in their name. That’s what we call transparency,” he explained.

Mr. Johnson’s contributions to sports development extend beyond words. During the recent African Games, he pre-financed the setup of the Gamashie Hall, ensuring that karate, taekwondo, and judo had a suitable venue for competition. “I didn’t wait for government or anybody. I took initiative. That’s the kind of action I’m bringing to the board,” he said.

He also wants to see the GOC take a more active role in helping federations attract corporate sponsorship. “The GOC has a louder voice. If they lead the campaign to engage corporate Ghana, and federations come under that umbrella, the impact would be stronger and more sustainable.”

With nearly two decades of experience in business, sports, and international negotiation, Mr. Johnson believes his leadership style and advocacy for systems-thinking make him an ideal candidate. “We can’t keep letting the same challenges persist. I’m offering my skills not for travel perks, but to make a difference. If elected, I’ll be loud, clear, and results-driven.”

As the race for the GOC Board intensifies, Nathaniel Johnson’s message is clear: “I am not just seeking a seat — I am bringing substance. Vote for leadership that delivers, not leadership that travels.”