Accra: President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday, at the maiden National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, led Ghanaians to express gratitude to God for the peace, stability, and prosperity of the nation. Speaking at the Christian Service, which was held at the forecourt of the State House in Accra, President Mahama said: ‘Today I stand before you with profound humility and gratitude in my heart and reverence in my spirit as we mark a sacred and historic moment, the first celebration of our National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.’
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama quoted from the Bible, saying, ‘This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.’ He emphasized the importance of acknowledging God’s role in preserving the nation, highlighting that every peaceful sunrise, every safely born child, every harvest, and every act of kindness are manifestations of God’s mercy and grace.
President Mahama instituted the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving to unite Ghanaians in gratitude for God’s goodness and protection, particularly during times of crisis. He expressed appreciation for God’s ongoing work in rekindling hope and restoring strength, while leading the nation towards a future of peace, justice, and abundance. The President also reflected on Ghana’s unique position as an oasis of peace in a continent often marred by conflict and instability.
He credited the peace Ghanaians enjoy to the power of prayer and the faithful intercession of believers across the country. The President extended his gratitude to pastors, reverend ministers, and worshippers who consistently pray for the nation. He emphasized the importance of spiritual harmony and religious tolerance in Ghana, noting that churches and mosques coexist in mutual respect and dignity.
President Mahama urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant against divisive forces such as tribalism, religious extremism, and political hostility. He called for a language of peace, compassion, and mutual respect, encouraging citizens to build bridges rather than barriers. He also reminded the nation that true thanksgiving is demonstrated through actions, not just words, and urged Ghanaians to hold leaders accountable to high standards of integrity and humility.
The President praised Mr. Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, Chair of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving Planning Committee, and other members for their efforts in fostering national renewal. Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, in his homily, encouraged Ghanaians to look to their history as a guide toward unity, justice, and sustainable development.
The event was attended by notable figures including the First Lady, Mrs. Lordina Mahama, Mrs. Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Mr. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, and other dignitaries. Prominent clergy such as Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams and Archbishop Charles Agyinasare were also present, underscoring the event’s significance.