The NSA's statement clarified that the move "reflects the joint commitment of the NSA and the Sports Ministry to prioritize the safety, health, and welfare of athletes." It further revealed that prior to this incident, authorities had finalised plans to implement a "comprehensive five-year safety and development plan" for the sport, anchored by a nine-member Interim Management Committee (IMC). These reforms are designed to "strengthen medical, technical, and regulatory procedures, ensuring that when boxing returns, it will operate under safer, more professional, and globally aligned standards."

The authority has called on all stakeholders, including "promoters, coaches, officials, athletes, supporters and the media," to fully respect the directive. It acknowledged that the "suspension may present immediate challenges," but defended it as "a necessary step to protect lives, preserve the integrity of the sport, and secure its future." The statement also noted the suspension is in line with a committee set up by the Sports Minister following the recent death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju.

Akushey’s death has sent shockwaves through Ghana’s boxing community and reignited debate about safety standards. His reputation for a punishing, resilient fighting style had earned him fan admiration, but also drew concern. Following his loss to Dickson, former IBF welterweight champion Joshua Clottey had publicly cautioned him, warning in a viral video, “He may not feel the effects of the punishment now, but he will suffer the impact later in life.”