Shortly after the swearing-in of John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the President of Ghana, President Bola Tinubu of the Federal Republic of Nigeria delivered a congratulatory speech, marking the occasion with a message of unity and pride for Africa.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held in Accra on 7th January 2025, President Tinubu celebrated the democracy of Africa, highlighting Ghana’s peaceful transition from one democratic government to another.
He emphasized that this historic event is a testament to the capabilities of West Africa’s democratic systems and productive efforts.
“This historic event demonstrates that in West Africa, we are capable of achieving democratic and productive endeavours. It is time that critics of our continent stop forgetting the strides that Ghana, Nigeria, and others have made. We need not prove ourselves to them; we have nothing to prove to anyone except ourselves,” he said.
The Nigerian president also underscored the significance of the ceremony, describing it as a source of pride and honour for Ghana, Africa, and its diaspora. He went on to share his vision of a rising Black Star, symbolising hope and unity for the continent.
“The sun is out, and the sky may be blue, but I see today a Black Star rising, rising high over Africa, this Black Star shines over this nation and will spread across the continent, bringing with it a sense of shared history, hope, compassion, unity, and devotion to our common welfare,” he added.
He also honoured Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, stating that his legacy continues to lift the Black Star ever higher. “The first republic President Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah is here today, lifting that star higher and higher,” President Tinubu remarked.
The Nigerian leader recognised Ghana’s harmony and the enduring spirit of its forefathers, stating that the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama truly reflects that unity.
President Tinubu further praised John Dramani Mahama, describing him as a man of patriotic vision and substance. He assured Mahama of his willingness to offer support as he returns to government, expressing confidence in his leadership.
“We all look forward to a future filled with hope, opportunity, and progress,” Tinubu concluded, wishing the new president every success as he embarks on his second term in office.
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ahmed Bola Tinubu says Ghana, Nigeria, and other African countries are fully capable of managing their affairs.
He emphasised that it is time for critics of African nations to recognise that countries like Ghana and Nigeria do not need to prove their ability to develop.
“We need not prove ourselves to them; we are not here to prove anything to anyone except ourselves,” President Tinubu noted in his address as the special guest of honour at the swearing-in ceremony of Ghana’s new president, John Mahama, in Accra on Tuesday, January 7.
Tinubu while praising Mahama and pledging a commitment to supporting his government, declared “We will lead our nations out of poverty and build strong, resilient economies for our people.”
He expressed a willingness to collaborate in the growth of both nations. To achieve this, the Nigerian president called for peaceful coexistence across the continent.
“While others may demean Africa and create division among brothers, that shining star reminds all of who we are and, better yet, who we can be,” he said. “That star reminds us always to strive to walk together, march together, and, even when we disagree, choose the path of peaceful dialogue.”
