The Deputy Minister for Defence, Honourable Ernest Brogya Genfi, has honoured three soldiers from 2 Garrison, Takoradi, for their swift and lifesaving intervention that saved a footballer who collapsed during a match. The awards were presented on his behalf by the Garrison Commander, Air Commodore Eric Yirenkyi, at a brief ceremony on Tuesday, 11 November 2025.

The recognition, which highlighted their exceptional selflessness and professionalism, came with a cash reward of Ten Thousand Ghana Cedis (GH₵10,000.00). The recipients were Chief Petty Officer Class II Adjabeng Joseph Kofi Duku of the Ghana Navy and Team Manager of Dolphins FC, who received GH₵3,500.00, Corporal Atiah Solomon, a Physical Training Instructor of the Ghana Air Force and player for Acquilla Force FC, who received GH₵3,250.00 and Leading Seaman Kakra Benjamin of the Ghana Navy and goalkeeper for Dolphins FC, who was also awarded GH₵3,250.00.

The three personnel demonstrated commendable gallantry and professionalism when they administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on Hamza Abubakar, a footballer who collapsed during a soccer match between BIS Paradise Sporting Club and Sekondi Hasaacas Football Club at Kobby’s Turf, Takoradi, on Friday 31 October 2025. Their timely intervention kept the player stable until medical personnel arrived and conveyed him to a health facility for further treatment.

In his remarks, Air Commodore Eric Yirenkyi recounted the incident, noting that during the routine football match on 31 October 2025, Hasaacas player Hamza Abubakar suffered a sudden medical emergency. In that critical moment, when every second counted, the three soldiers acted without hesitation. Relying on their training, composure, and courage, they stepped forward to stabilise the player and provide life-saving assistance until professional medical help arrived. He stressed that their actions made the decisive difference between life and tragedy.

Air Commodore Yirenkyi further stated that the honour bestowed on the soldiers serves as a powerful reminder of the core values of the military profession, protecting lives and serving others. He praised the honourees for embodying these values and urged personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces and sister security services, both at home and abroad, to emulate their exemplary conduct in all facets of their service.