Ghanaian President says he prays daily for Nigeria to get Its act together

Mahama warns Nigeria stability is vital to Ghana, urging reforms and stronger African control of natural resources

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has warned Nigeria stability is vital to Ghana, describing the country as a “keen security interest” to Ghanaians while urging deeper regional cooperation.

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Mahama spoke on Saturday in Accra as Special Guest of Honour and Chief Host at the 4th African Heritage Awards, where he blended humour with a powerful call for policy reform across Africa.

John Dramani Mahama highlighted the historic ties between Ghana and Nigeria, describing both nations as “twins of the same mother,” with differences largely limited to cultural rivalries over food and sport.

He said many Ghanaians trace their roots to Nigeria, particularly the Yoruba kingdoms, reinforcing shared identity and interdependence.

Mahama stressed that Nigeria’s progress directly impacts Ghana’s stability and prosperity. He said Ghana’s interest in Nigeria is both emotional and strategic.

“If Nigeria does well, Ghana does well,” Mahama said. “When you have cousins, 250 million of them, you want them to do well.”

The president added that he prays daily for Nigeria to overcome its challenges, noting that instability could trigger migration pressures on smaller neighbouring countries.

Beyond bilateral relations, Mahama delivered a strong message on Africa’s economic direction, calling for a decisive shift in how the continent manages its natural resources.

He warned that the global order is changing rapidly, with declining humanitarian support and shifting priorities among developed nations.

Mahama criticised longstanding arrangements that grant extensive concessions to foreign companies, describing them as outdated and unjust.

He said such deals often create stark inequality, leaving resource-rich areas surrounded by poverty without basic amenities like clean water.

“Africa cannot sit with a cup in hand and go begging,” Mahama said, urging leaders to take ownership of the continent’s wealth.

Mahama pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area as a promising step, despite early challenges, noting that intra-African trade is already improving.

He expressed confidence that Africa possesses the capacity and talent to build sustainable prosperity if leadership aligns with the continent’s interests.

Concluding his address, Mahama emphasised that effective leadership and collaboration remain critical to transforming Africa’s future.

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In a notable highlight of the event, former President of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adesina, received the African Lifetime Achievement Award.

David Okere