In an impassioned speech during the inauguration of Ghana’s 12th president, John Dramani Mahama, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu urged the world to abandon outdated stereotypes and negative perceptions of Africa. His remarks come at a pivotal time when the continent is striving for greater prosperity and global recognition.
Addressing an audience filled with high-profile dignitaries, including Presidents William Ruto of Kenya, Paul Kagame of Rwanda, and several others, Tinubu emphasized that Africa is determined to build its future without the need for external validation.
“We have nothing to prove to anyone except ourselves,” Tinubu declared, his voice firm and resolute. “We are working diligently to lift our nations out of poverty, to build resilient economies, and to secure a better future for our people. Our progress is for us to determine, not for outsiders to dictate.”
The inauguration, which saw Mahama return to power after a previous term from 2012 to 2017, was a moment of significant political and democratic triumph for Ghana. Tinubu, attending the event as a special guest of honor, lauded Ghana’s peaceful transition of power, describing it as an example for the entire continent.
“This is a proud moment for Ghana and for all of Africa,” Tinubu said. “Ghana has answered the question that many have asked for so long: can Africa be a model for democracy and productive governance? The answer is yes. Ghana has shown us that African nations can thrive democratically and economically.”
Tinubu’s message, however, extended far beyond Ghana’s political stability. The Nigerian leader called on African nations to unite in their shared goals of addressing the continent’s most pressing issues, including poverty, youth unemployment, and insurgency. These challenges, Tinubu argued, could only be tackled through collective action and collaboration among African countries.
“The problems we face are not insurmountable,” he continued. “But to solve them, we must work together as one continent, committed to our own development. It’s time to focus on the things that unite us, rather than the differences that divide us.”
One of the key themes in Tinubu’s speech was the importance of African leadership. He commended Mahama for his dedication to the well-being of the Ghanaian people and expressed confidence in his ability to bring about positive change.
“President Mahama is a leader of substance, a man with a vision for his country,” Tinubu said. “He loves his people and is committed to fulfilling the mission that Ghana has set for itself. This is the kind of leadership Africa needs—patriotic, visionary, and unwavering in its commitment to progress.”
Tinubu also highlighted the deep historical ties between Nigeria and Ghana, noting that both nations drew inspiration from their founding leaders, such as Kwame Nkrumah and Nigeria’s first president, Nnamdi Azikiwe. He expressed hope that these shared values would continue to strengthen the relationship between the two nations.
As he expressed support for Mahama’s new administration, Tinubu underscored the importance of regional integration and the role that Nigeria would play in advancing both bilateral and multilateral ties with Ghana.
“Nigeria and Ghana share a bond that cannot be broken,” he said. “Together, we will work towards a future where our citizens enjoy greater prosperity and our countries continue to grow stronger in every way.”
The inauguration ceremony, which took place in Accra, also saw the presence of numerous political figures from across Africa and the Commonwealth, including former Nigerian Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, former Ghanaian Presidents John Kuffor and Nana Akufo-Addo, and Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland.
In his address, President Tinubu took the opportunity to criticize external forces that, in his view, often seek to undermine Africa’s efforts at self-determination. He called for unity among African nations, declaring that the continent would no longer tolerate interference from outside forces.
“We must stand firm against any efforts to disrupt our unity,” Tinubu warned. “We have fought for our independence, and we will not allow anyone to harm us or divide us.”
While asserting Africa’s right to chart its own course, Tinubu remained optimistic about the future, emphasizing that the continent’s potential is limitless.
“Let us look forward to a future filled with hope, opportunity, and prosperity,” he said. “Through dialogue, cooperation, and unwavering commitment, we will build the Africa we deserve—a continent that is not defined by its struggles, but by its successes.”
For Tinubu, this message was not just about Ghana. It was about a unified Africa that, despite its challenges, is on the cusp of transformative change. As he closed his speech, he reaffirmed his belief that the time for Africa’s resurgence is now.
“Ghana’s success is Africa’s success,” he concluded. “Nigeria stands with you, President Mahama, and we stand with all African nations in our quest for a brighter future.”
The inauguration ceremony not only marked the beginning of Mahama’s second term but also symbolized the growing political maturity across the continent. As African nations continue to forge their paths toward greater democracy, economic independence, and global influence, Tinubu’s call for a shift in global perception comes at a critical moment.
