Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has, on the occasion of the first National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, hailed the immense contributions of the Islamic community to the moral, spiritual, and social advancement of Ghana. He also paid a special tribute to Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, whom he described as a father to the nation and a living embodiment of humility, wisdom, and peace. The President was speaking during the Islamic Service at the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving at the National Mosque at Kanda in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event was attended by prominent figures including Sheikh Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, and Maulvi Mohammed Bin Salih, the Ameer and Missionary in-charge of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission in Ghana. Other dignitaries at the Islamic Service included Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Mr. Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the Acting Chief Justice, and Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson.
President Mahama noted that the day was a profound national reflection, emphasizing its non-partisan nature and stating, "It is a spiritual duty. It is a sacred opportunity for us as Ghanaians to turn our hearts to the Almighty, to give thanks to Him and seek His continued blessings." He highlighted the divine principle found in Surah Ibrahim 14:7, which says, "If you are grateful, I will surely increase you in favor," as the foundation of the day's activities.
In his address, the President remarked on Ghana's position as a beacon of relative peace and coexistence in a world troubled by war, economic hardship, disease, and disunity. He attributed this peace not to the strength of Ghana's policies or the competence of its leaders, but to the mercy of Allah and the ceaseless prayers and sacrifices of righteous men and women. On behalf of Ghanaians, President Mahama expressed gratitude to Allah for life and the peace of the nation.
President Mahama shared an example of the peaceful coexistence between religions in Ghana, highlighting how non-Muslims eagerly participate in sharing Salla meat during Eid celebrations. He recounted a social media post from the recent Eid al-Adha festival that humorously said, "To whom Christmas jollof and chicken was given, Salla meat is expected." This act of sharing, he noted, speaks volumes about the essence of Ghanaian society.
The President cautioned Ghanaians against taking their fragile peace for granted, urging them to defend national harmony amid rising intolerance and to resist tribalism, extremism, and those who profit from disunity. He emphasized that Ghana's diversity of ethnicity, language, and faith is a blessing from Allah.
Maulvi Mohammed Bin Salih, delivering the homily, encouraged gratitude towards Allah for Ghana's peace, stability, and natural resources, such as mineral wealth and fertile lands. Prior to attending the Islamic Service, President Mahama participated in the Christian Service at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra.
