Kehinde Fajobi
President Bola Tinubu has pledged Nigeria’s support to Ghana’s President John Mahama in driving economic growth and prosperity for the people of Ghana.
Speaking in Accra on Tuesday at Mahama’s inauguration, Tinubu, also the chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, emphasized the importance of collaboration among African nations to strengthen economies and lift people out of poverty.
“It is time that our continent’s critics stopped forgetting the strides that Nigeria and others have made. We need not put ourselves to death,” Tinubu said.
“We have nothing to prove to anyone except ourselves. We will lift our nations out of poverty and build strong and resilient economies for our people.”
Tinubu continued, “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.
“This moment is a source of pride and honour for Ghanaians, the entire continent and its diaspora.”
He added, “The sun may be out and the sky may be blue but I see today a black star rising, rising high in African sky.
“This black star shines over this nation and its ray spreads across this continent with a sense of shared history, hope, compassion, unity, and devotion to our common welfare.”
Tinubu called for unity, emphasizing the importance of peaceful dialogue.
“Even when we disagree, we must choose the path of peaceful dialogue. Never can we do harm to our brothers nor permit outsiders to disrupt our bond of brotherhood,” he said.
Acknowledging the contributions of past leaders, including Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Tinubu noted the shared historical ties between Nigeria and Ghana.
He commended Mahama for his vision and commitment to the people, stating, “Your new president is a man of patriotic vision and substance, he loves his nation and his people to the core. He believes that your nation has a mission and intends for you all to fulfil it.”
Tinubu further assured Mahama of Nigeria’s continued support: “President John Mahama and I share a deep friendship. My dear brother, I’m here to work with you, you know you can count on Nigeria’s support at any given time you call on me. We are your brothers and sisters.”
Tinubu concluded with optimism for Ghana’s future, saying, “I have no doubt that your administration will bring about positive change and progress.”
In his inauguration speech, President Mahama pledged to focus on tackling unemployment, inflation, and corruption.