Accra Hearts of Oak’s investment in modern infrastructure, particularly the redevelopment of its headquarters and the establishment of the Kpobiman Academy, has been described as a major step towards securing the club’s future as it celebrated its 115th anniversary.
Chairman of the club’s Interim Management Committee (IMC), Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, said the developments represented an important shift towards building a professionally managed, financially sustainable and internationally competitive football institution.
In an anniversary message issued on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, to mark the club’s 115 years of existence, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe praised Executive Board Chairman Togbe Afede XIV for his leadership and commitment to the club’s infrastructural and institutional development.
He said the transformation of the club’s headquarters, popularly known as Phobia House, and the construction of the Hearts Africa Football Academy and Sports Complex at Kpobiman would provide a strong foundation for future growth.
Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe, who served as Chairman of the Interim Management Committee in 1986, said the greatness of Hearts of Oak should not be measured by trophies alone but also by the strength of its institutions, quality of administration and ability to develop young footballers.
Hearts of Oak, founded on November 11, 1911, by a group of young men led by Christopher Brandford Nettey, popularly known as Asafoatse Nettey, has grown into one of Ghana’s most successful and recognised football clubs.
The club’s 115-year history has been marked by domestic and continental successes, including its historic 2000 CAF Champions League triumph, the 2001 CAF Super Cup victory and the 2004 CAF Confederation Cup title.
Its famous red, yellow and blue colours and the motto, “Never Say Die Until the Bones Are Rotten”, have remained important symbols of its identity and fighting spirit.
Phobia House and Kpobiman Academy
Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe said the redevelopment of Phobia House into a modern administrative and commercial facility was an important milestone in the club’s development.
The facility was expected to provide modern office accommodation and commercial spaces, while plans for a museum and heritage centre would help preserve the club’s history.
He commended Togbe Afede XIV, the Board of Directors, project consultants, engineers, architects and contractors who contributed to the project.
He specifically acknowledged Rema Alma, the construction company responsible for delivering the new headquarters, and its leadership, including Madam Emilia Ahadzi.
On the Kpobiman project, he said the Hearts Africa Football Academy and Sports Complex had been designed to support football training, education, accommodation, physical conditioning and recreation.
The facilities and development plans included natural grass and artificial turf pitches, residential accommodation for academy players, classrooms, administrative offices, a gymnasium, dining facilities and changing rooms.
Other planned facilities included a swimming pool, golf course, tennis and basketball facilities, a mini-stadium and hospitality infrastructure.
He, however, stressed that the infrastructure investments needed to be supported by professional management, qualified personnel, regular maintenance and financial discipline to achieve their intended purpose.
Tribute to supporters and club legends
Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe also praised the Phobian fraternity for its loyalty and sacrifices throughout the club’s history.
He paid tribute to the founding fathers, former chairmen, directors, administrators, players, coaches and supporters whose contributions had helped preserve the institution.
He urged supporters, including members of the National Chapters Committee and other supporters’ groups in Ghana and abroad, to maintain unity, discipline and constructive engagement.
He said the club’s next chapter should focus on strong youth development structures, modern infrastructure, accountability and administrative excellence.
“After 115 years, the oak tree still stands,” he said, describing the club’s history as a legacy built on the sacrifices of generations.
He congratulated Togbe Afede XIV, the Board, management, players, staff and supporters on the milestone and called for a renewed commitment to the club’s future.
Hearts of Oak marked its 115th anniversary on November 11, 2026, with its enduring motto remaining a rallying call for the Phobian family: Never Say Die Until the Bones Are Rotten.
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