The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Aswaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, yesterday called on Ghanaians to support President John Dramani Mahama to reset Ghana onto the path of growth and prosperity.
“I am confident the new government under the leadership of President Mahama would work with Nigeria to strengthen this powerful bond, leading to shared prosperity and progress for our people. I have no doubt that your administration would bring about positive change,” he stated.
He said President Mahama could deliver on his mandate, depending on the support he would get from Ghanaians as he sought to leave a legacy in his second term as the President of Ghana, one that could be remembered for decades.
President Tinubu was speaking at the investiture of President Mahama as the Special Guest of Honour at the Black Star Square, here in Accra.
Mr Tinubu, a Pan-Africanist and former Governor of Lagos State, commended Ghana for proving to the world that it was still the beacon of hope in Africa by ensuring a peaceful transition of power from one democratic government to another.
He reiterated the call on African leaders to address poverty, youth unemployment, instability and insurgency confronting the continent.
He also noted that Africa was endowed with natural and human resources needed to lift the people from the quagmire of squalor, hunger and poverty.
The Nigerian President further indicated that all Africa needed is good and patriotic leaders, who have the interest of their citizens at heart, rather than their own personal and selfish interest.
President Tinubu said it was time Africa built resilient economies, ones geared toward shared growth and progress.
“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 the Federal Republic of Nigeria, but also as an African in resolute support of Ghana and our people. This moment is a source of honour and pride for our people,” he highlighted.
He continued, “You can count on my support at any time. May your administration be a profound success to Ghana.”
President Tinubu told President Mahama that he trusted he would deliver on his promises to Ghanaians.
He told Ghanaians that President Mahama is a patriot and a man with the proclivity to move his nation forward.
“Your new President is a man of patriotic vision and substance. He loves his nation and his people.”
Additionally, the President of Nigeria said he and President Mahama shared principles of good democratic values, respect for the rule of law and constitutionalism.
President Tinubu commended Ghanaians for peaceful transition of power from democratic government to another.
As the black stars of Africa, President Tinubu mentioned, Ghana’s forbears, especially the first President of the country, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, would be proud of Ghana’s democratic accomplishments.
BY MALIK SULLEMANA
