President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to John Dramani Mahama, the newly elected President of Ghana, following his victory in the country’s December 7 general election.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, it was revealed that the Nigerian President personally congratulated Mahama during a telephone conversation. Tinubu praised the people of Ghana for their unwavering commitment to democracy, commending their peaceful participation in both the presidential and parliamentary elections.
He expressed optimism that Mahama’s return to power would contribute significantly to the stability of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), an organization Tinubu currently chairs.
Tinubu’s message also included praise for Mahama’s opponent, the Vice President of Ghana, Mahamudu Bawumia, who represents the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP). The Nigerian leader acknowledged Bawumia’s concession of defeat prior to the official results being announced by the Ghanaian Electoral Commission, calling it a demonstration of Ghana’s strong democratic principles.
The statement read: “President Bola Tinubu congratulated President-elect John Dramani Mahama on his victory in the December 7 election in Ghana following his opponent’s concession speech. In a phone call to Mahama, President Tinubu expressed his hope that Mahama’s return to power would bring additional stability to ECOWAS, of which President Tinubu serves as Chairman.”
Tinubu emphasized that the peaceful and orderly conduct of Ghana’s elections reflected the nation’s commitment to democratic values. He also applauded Ghanaians for demonstrating to the world that democracy remains the ideal path for achieving political stability, economic progress, social justice, and transparent governance in Africa. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s belief in the people’s right to freely choose their leaders, considering this commitment a source of pride for the region.
Tinubu further noted that Mahama’s successful return to the presidency after his previous term from 2012 to 2017 was a testament to the trust the Ghanaian people have in his leadership and vision. Mahama, who served as Ghana’s Vice President from 2009 to 2012, a Member of Parliament from 1997 to 2009, and held key ministerial roles between 1998 and 2001, now embarks on his second term in office with the confidence of the electorate.
The Nigerian leader also praised Mahama’s return to the Jubilee House, emphasizing that it reflected the Ghanaian public’s belief in his stewardship and ability to advance the country. Tinubu stated that he was committed to continuing the deep-rooted partnership between Nigeria and Ghana, founded on shared history, cultural ties, and mutual support. This partnership, he noted, would strengthen cooperation on key Pan-African goals, democracy, the rule of law, and economic integration.
Tinubu also took the opportunity to thank Ghana’s outgoing President, Nana Akufo-Addo, for his exemplary leadership and contributions to both Ghana’s progress and regional peace. He expressed eagerness to collaborate with Mahama’s incoming administration, with a focus on further enhancing bilateral relations across various sectors, and contributing to a prosperous and stable future for West Africa.
The statement concluded with President Tinubu’s affirmation of his dedication to fostering stronger ties between Nigeria and Ghana, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration for the benefit of both countries and the broader West African region.
