Akufo-Addo reflects on legacy at Thanksgiving Service

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, at a thanksgiving mass held in his honour, expressed profound satisfaction with his tenure as Ghana’s leader, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to democratic values and peace.
The event, held at Accra Ridge Church on Saturday, January 18, 2025, brought together dignitaries, clergy, and members of the public to celebrate his eight-year presidency.

Legacy of democracy and peace
Reflecting on his presidency, Akufo-Addo highlighted two major sources of fulfillment: the deepening of Ghana’s democracy and his peaceful entry into and exit from office.
“I leave office with two great satisfactions,” he stated. “One is that the democratic values to whose sustenance I have devoted my life now appear to have taken deep roots in the body politic of our country, and I say Amen to that. The second is that I came in peace, and I have left in peace.”
Describing his tenure as “the greatest honor and privilege” of his life, the former president acknowledged the inevitable debates over his leadership but affirmed his belief that he had given his best for the nation.

Verdict of history
Akufo-Addo recounted his administration’s achievements across various sectors, including education, healthcare, industrialization, agriculture, infrastructure, and digital transformation. He highlighted significant progress in areas such as national security, tourism development, Ghana’s global standing, and regional integration.
“These are now matters of history,” he remarked. “I am content to await and abide by the verdict of history on their benefits.”

Challenges and leadership during COVID-19
Akufo-Addo identified the COVID-19 pandemic as the greatest challenge of his presidency. He described it as an “unforeseen, unprecedented, and unknown virus” that posed a monumental task for global leadership.
“With the help of the Almighty and the resilience of the Ghanaian people, we were able to overcome it, indeed providing leadership that was globally acknowledged at the time,” he noted.

Acknowledgment from the Anglican Church
The Anglican Bishop of Accra, Rt. Rev. Dr. Daniel Sylvanus Mensah Torto, commended Akufo-Addo’s faith and resilience during his presidency.
“God has been good to the former President and has sustained him throughout his 8-year tenure,” the Bishop said, citing Lamentations 3:22-23 as a testament to God’s faithfulness.
The Anglican Church presented a citation recognizing Akufo-Addo’s contributions to education, economic development, industrialization, and democracy.
It also acknowledged his support for the Church and prayed for continued blessings on his endeavors.

Scripture readings and dignitaries
The former First Lady, Mrs. Rebecca Akufo-Addo, and the former president himself participated in scripture readings during the Mass.
The solemn event was attended by former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, his wife Samira Bawumia, former cabinet ministers, and New Patriotic Party (NPP) leadership, among others.
As the nation reflects on Akufo-Addo’s tenure, his emphasis on democracy, peace, and national progress underscores the legacy he leaves behind, awaiting the judgment of history.