Ghana's democratic transition testament to Africa’s strength — President Tinubu

The Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has celebrated Ghana's democratic transition, highlighting it as a testament to the strength of African democracy.

"It is time that our continent's critics stop forgetting this right that Ghana, Nigeria, and others have," President Tinubu stated.

"We need not prove ourselves to them. We have nothing to prove to anyone except ourselves," he said.

Speaking as the special guest of honour at the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama at the Black Star Square in Accra yesterday, President Tinubu also emphasised the symbolic significance of the Black Star, a symbol of Ghana's independence and unity.

Mahama's leadership 

The Nigerian President expressed confidence in President Mahama's leadership, describing him as a man of patriotic vision and substance, and pledged his country's unwavering support to Ghana.

"We share a deep friendship, my dear brother. I'm here to walk with you. You know you can count on Nigerian support at any given time," President Tinubu assured, emphasising the strong bond between the two nations.

He expressed confidence in President Mahama's administration, stating, "I am confident that the new government, under your leadership, will work with Nigeria to strengthen this powerful bond, leading to greater shared progress and prosperity for our people."

President Tinubu also acknowledged the significance of President Mahama's accession to power, noting that it marked a new momentum in pursuing sub-regional integration and progress.
He described President Mahama as "a man of patriotic mission and substance" who loved his nation and people. 

High-profile guests

The ceremony, attended by 10 heads of state, two Vice-Presidents and representatives from international organisations, was used to celebrate Ghana's democratic legacy and its high standing on the global stage as far as democratic credentials are concerned.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by dignitaries from across Africa and the world, which marked a significant moment in Ghana's democratic history.

Message for Africa

President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria's support for Ghana and called for a renewed focus on regional integration and progress.

The Nigerian President hailed Ghana's democratic transition as a testament to West Africa's capabilities, stating, "It further demonstrates that in West Africa, we are capable of democratic and productive endeavours."

He emphasised the significance of the moment, saying, "It is a time that our continent is waiting for. It is time that Ghana, Nigeria and other nations keep our nations out of poverty and build strong and resilient economies for our people."

President Tinubu expressed his solidarity with Ghana, declaring, "Today, I am here not only as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, but also as an African in resolute support of Ghana and her people."

He praised the occasion as "a source of pride and honour for Ghanaians, the entire continent, and its diaspora."

Using the symbol of the Black Star, President Tinubu highlighted the shared history and unity of African nations, saying, "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 commonwealth."

He urged African leaders to choose  dialogue and unity, warning against external interference and internal conflicts.

He called on them to work together to lift their nations out of poverty so as to build strong and resilient economies.

"We can tackle our people's most pressing problems of poverty, youth unemployment, instability, insurgency and many other problems," President Tinubu stressed.

The Nigerian leader emphasised the importance of solidarity, resilience and collective effort in overcoming poverty, youth unemployment and instability.

President Tinubu also paid tribute to Ghana's founding father, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, and Nigeria's founding fathers, emphasising the need to draw inspiration from their vision and leadership.