Head coach of AshantiGold, Charles Kwabena Akonnor, says it is time the government honoured persons who have contributed immensely to the development of sports in the country before they pass on.

The ex-Black Stars captain made mention of this at a ceremony held last Sunday to rename the Tamale Sports Stadium after the late Vice-President Alhaji Aliu Mahama.

Akonnor was head coach of the Southern select side that played in the game against the Northern select side at the ceremony to honour the late Aliu Mahama.

According to him, it is time the government honoured national heroes while they are alive. He cited Abedi Pele as a national hero who needs to be immortalised before he passes on.

The Vice-President of Ghana, Mahamudu Bawumia, acknowledged the relentless support the late Vice-President contributed to the development of sports in the country.

The naming of the stadium after Aliu Mahama was in line with a campaign promise made by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo prior to the 2016 general elections.

The southern select team won the game by 2-1, taking away the giant trophy and cash amount of GH¢50,000.

Kwasi Donsu and Kwame Kizito ensured the C.K. Akonnor’s team became victorious on the day. Sadick Adams got a consolation for the northern select side team.