…Says Ghana’s Democratic Transition Evidence Of Africa’s Capability
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for Ghana during the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama in Accra on Tuesday.
Speaking as the special guest of honour at the swearing-in ceremony, Tinubu hailed the transfer of power from former president Nana Akufo-Addo to President Mahama as a testament to West Africa’s democratic capabilities.
Tinubu, who noted the strong bonds of brotherhood between both nations, knocked critics of the continent’s democratic progress.
“This moment does not merely symbolise another milestone in the evolution of Ghanaian democratic society, it further demonstrates that in West Africa, we are capable of democratic and productive endeavours.
“It is time that our continent’s critics 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. We have the capacity. We shall find the critical path to our success. We will lift our nations out of poverty and build strong and resilient economies for our people.
“Today, I am here not only as the President of Nigeria but also as an African in resolute support of Ghana and her people. This moment is a source of pride and honour for Ghanaians, the entire Continent, and its Diaspora,” he said.
Tinubu praised Mahama as “a man of patriotic vision and substance” who loves his nation and its people.
He added, “The sun is out, and the sky may be blue, but I see today a Black star rising high in the African sky. This black star shines over this nation, and its rays spread across this Continent with a sense of shared history, hope, compassion, unity, and devotion to our common welfare.
“While others may seek to demean Africa and keep brother pitted against brother, that shining star reminds us of who we are. Better yet, it reminds us of who we can be. That star reminds us, always, to strive and work together. Even when we disagree, we must choose the path of peaceful dialogue. Never, can we do harm to our brothers nor can we permit any outsider to disrupt our bonds of brotherhood.
“The spirit of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, is here today, lifting that star higher and higher. Just as Ghana draws inspiration and a well of strength from Kwame Nkrumah and many of its past leaders, Nigeria similarly draws inspiration from its founding leaders who not only fought for her independence but also cherished the close relationship between our two nations.”
The Nigerian leader expressed confidence that the new administration would strengthen bilateral ties between both countries and advance their shared prosperity.
