10 things to note from Nana Akufo-Addo’s final Xmas message as President of Ghana

As President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo delivered his final Christmas message to the nation on December 24, 2024, he reflected on his tenure, expressed gratitude, and highlighted key themes for the nation’s future. 

Below are 10 notable points from his address:  

1. Serving as President has been his greatest honour
  
President Akufo-Addo described leading the nation as the pinnacle of his life’s work.  

“Serving as the leader of our beloved country has been the greatest honour of my life,” he said, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Ghana’s progress.  

2. Ghana’s journey is not over
  
While celebrating the nation’s achievements, the President reminded Ghanaians that the path to development continues.  

“Ghana's story is still being written, and each of us has a role to play in shaping our future,” he stated, urging citizens to move forward with faith and determination.  

3. Peaceful and fair election  

President Akufo-Addo highlighted Ghana’s recent successful elections as a milestone for democracy.
  
“We have achieved another monumental milestone in our national development, with the peaceful, free, and fair election of a new president and new members of parliament,” he remarked.  

4. Congratulations to President-Elect John Dramani Mahama

The outgoing President extended warm congratulations to his successor and the incoming Members of Parliament.  

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the president-elect and the MPs-elect, and wish them wisdom, strength, and God’s blessings as they prepare to lead our beloved nation,” he said.  

5. Condemnation of election-related violence
  
President Akufo-Addo took a strong stance against those who might use violence to achieve political goals.
  
“Those who might contemplate using violence to achieve their aims know this: our nation's peace is sacred, and it will not be sacrificed on the altar of ambition,” he warned.  

6. The sacredness of national peace  

Reiterating the importance of unity, he urged all Ghanaians to protect the peace that has been the foundation of the nation’s stability.
 
“Let us protect her peace, cherish her unity, and nurture her promise,” he said, calling on citizens to prioritise harmony above all else.  

7. Call for action from security services
  
The President directed security agencies to act decisively against any threats to the nation’s stability.  

“I urge the security services to take a firm stance against any actions that threaten the stability and harmony of our land,” he stated.  

8. Ghana is destined for greatness
  
President Akufo-Addo expressed optimism about Ghana’s future, describing the nation as one with unlimited potential.  

“Ghana is a nation destined for greatness,” he affirmed, urging citizens to work collectively to realise this promise.  

9. Importance of hope and togetherness
  
As part of his Christmas message, the President emphasised the values of love, hope, and unity.  

“Let us move forward with faith, knowing that brighter days lie ahead, powered by the energy, creativity, and determination of our people,” he encouraged.  

10. Gratitude for Ghanaian resilience
  
Reflecting on his tenure, he attributed his administration’s successes to the strength and resolve of the Ghanaian people.  

“These achievements are not mine; they are yours. They are proof of the resilience and resolve of Ghanaians everywhere,” he stated.  

President Akufo-Addo concluded his address with a hopeful message for the nation’s future, urging Ghanaians to embrace unity and ambition.  

“Together, guided by the light of hope and the spirit of love, we can achieve extraordinary things,” he said.