On Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed the commitment of African leaders to lifting their nations out of poverty and building resilient economies at their own pace.
Tinubu, who attended the swearing-in ceremony of President John Mahama in Accra, Ghana, stated, “We have nothing to prove to anyone except ourselves. We have found the critical path to our success. We shall lift our nations out of poverty and build resilient economies at our own pace.”
He continued, “Today, I am here not only as the President of Nigeria but also as an African in resolute support for Ghana and her people.”
Tinubu described Mahama’s inauguration as a moment of pride for Ghanaians, the entire continent, and the African diaspora. “We celebrate African Democracy today as Ghana and her beloved people mark the transition from one democratic government to another. This moment does more than symbolise another milestone in the evolution of Ghanaian democratic society. It firmly answers the question of whether Ghana and Africa can achieve democratic and productive endeavours. Ghana has resoundingly answered that question.”
He added that just as Ghana drew inspiration from figures like Kwame Nkrumah, Nigeria too found its strength in its founding leaders who fought for independence and valued the close relationship between the two nations. “May we always walk in the way and spirit of these enlightened leaders. Ghana is in harmony with that spirit, and President John Mahama’s inauguration today reflects that.”
Tinubu described Mahama as a leader with a patriotic vision. “Your new president is a man of substance. He loves his nation and its people to the core. He believes that your nation has a mission and intends for you all to fulfil it. No one can ask more of a leader than that.”
He expressed confidence that Mahama’s leadership would strengthen the bond between Ghana and Nigeria, fostering greater shared prosperity. “I have no doubt that your administration will bring about positive change and progress. Your ascension to power should also mark a new and invigorated momentum in pursuing sub-regional integration and progress.”
Tinubu emphasized the need for focus in addressing pressing issues such as poverty, youth unemployment, instability, and insurgency, urging for a collective effort to overcome the challenges hindering progress.
