Tinubu Urges African Leaders to Reject Western Validation as Ghana’s John Mahama is Sworn In

President Tinubu calls on African leaders to prioritize self-validation and independence during John Mahama’s inauguration as Ghana’s president, emphasizing unity and growth within the continent.

President Bola Tinubu took the opportunity at Tuesday’s inauguration of Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama to unite African leaders in a collective call for prosperity and development across the continent.

Tinubu, who praised Ghana’s recent elections resulting in Mahama becoming President, stated that democracy has matured in Africa. He emphasized the need for the continent and its leaders to eliminate Western influence.

The Nigerian President, who also serves as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), stated that Ghana’s election has definitively answered any doubts about whether Ghana and Africa can engage in democratic and productive activities.

While subtly critiquing Western powers, he stated that it’s time for Africa’s critics to stop overlooking the progress made by countries on the continent and refrain from constantly demanding proof of their achievements.

Remember that Mahama, who was the 12th President of Ghana from 2011 to 2017, returned to power after being re-elected in December 2024.

He is succeeding President Nana Akuffo-Addo, who served from 2017 to 2025.

Tinubu stated that both Nigeria and the entire continent are celebrating African Democracy today, as Ghana and its cherished citizens witness a transition from one democratic government to another.

This moment not only symbolizes another milestone in the evolution of Ghana’s democratic society, but it also resolves any doubts about whether Ghana and Africa can engage in democratic and productive pursuits.

“Ghana has provided a definitive answer to that question. It’s time for Africa’s critics to recognize the progress made by nations like yours, Nigeria, and others, instead of persistently asking us to justify ourselves. We have no need to prove anything except to ourselves. We’ve discovered the essential path towards our success and are committed to lifting our countries out of poverty and developing robust economies at our own pace,” Tinubu stated during the inauguration ceremony in Accra.

In elaborating on his mission in the neighboring country, Tinubu stated that he was not there solely as Nigeria’s President but also as an African standing firmly with Ghana and its citizens. He emphasized that this occasion is a moment of pride and honor for them, the entire continent, and its diaspora.

The sun is shining, and the sky proclaims daylight, yet today I witness a Black star ascending in the African sky. This Black star illuminates our nation with its rays spreading across this Continent, symbolizing shared history, hope, compassion, unity and commitment to our common well-being.

The Nigerian President stated that although some may try to belittle Africa and create divisions among its people, the shining star serves as a reminder of our true identity.

It serves as a reminder of our potential. That star symbolizes our commitment to collaboration. Even in disagreement, we will engage in dialogue and discussion until we find common ground. We must never harm one another or let outsiders disrupt the unity that so many heroes sacrificed their sweat, blood, and lives to achieve.

The legacy of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, is alive today, elevating that guiding star ever higher. Just as Ghana gains inspiration and strength from Kwame Nkrumah and its former leaders, Nigeria likewise finds motivation in its founding figures who not only strove for independence but also valued the strong bond between our two countries.

“Let us continually follow the path and spirit of these visionary leaders. Ghana embodies this ethos, as evidenced by President John Mahama’s inauguration today.”

Your new president is a leader with a deep-seated love for his country and its citizens, driven by patriotic vision and genuine commitment. He firmly believes in your nation’s unique purpose and aspires for everyone to work towards fulfilling it. Such dedication sets the standard for true leadership.

President John Mahama and I have a profound friendship. My dear brother, I’m here to collaborate with you. Rest assured that Nigeria’s support and goodwill are always at your disposal whenever needed. We consider ourselves your brothers and sisters, united by an unbreakable bond.

“May your leadership bring significant success and advancement to you, the people of Ghana, and our entire region.”

He expressed optimism that the new government, led by President Mahama, would collaborate with Nigeria to fortify this powerful bond, ultimately resulting in greater shared prosperity for our people.

He expressed his confidence by saying, “I am certain that your administration will lead to positive change and progress.”

Your rise to power should herald a revitalized drive toward sub-regional integration and advancement. By maintaining an unwavering focus, we can address our people’s most urgent issues: poverty, youth unemployment, instability, insurgency, as well as numerous other obstacles hindering the progress we seek.

May Ghana’s democracy continue to thrive and strengthen. May progress and prosperity be abundant for you. Let us all anticipate a future brimming with hope, opportunity, and success.