President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have congratulated John Dramani Mahama on his victory in Ghana’s December 7, 2024, presidential election.
President Tinubu’s Message of Congratulations
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Tinubu extended his heartfelt congratulations to Mahama and commended the people of Ghana for their commitment to democracy.
In a phone call with Mahama, Tinubu expressed hope that Mahama’s return to power would further stabilize the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), where Tinubu serves as chairman.
“President Tinubu applauded Ghanaians for demonstrating again to the world that democracy is the preferred path to achieving political stability, economic development, social justice, and transparent governance in Africa,” the statement read.
Tinubu also commended Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the candidate of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), for his statesmanship in conceding defeat before the official announcement of results. Tinubu noted that Bawumia’s actions reinforced Ghana’s democratic principles.
Highlighting Mahama’s extensive political career, Tinubu remarked on the trust Ghanaians have placed in his leadership, given his experience as a former president (2012–2017), vice president (2009–2012), and parliamentarian (1997–2009). Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s readiness to work closely with Mahama’s administration to strengthen bilateral ties, advance regional cooperation, and promote democracy and economic integration.
Additionally, Tinubu thanked outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo for his leadership and his contributions to Ghana’s progress and regional stability.
INEC Chairman Commends Ghana’s Electoral Process
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), praised Ghana’s electoral innovations and political stability during the 2024 presidential election. Yakubu highlighted Ghana’s adoption of constituency-based result management for parliamentary elections as a lesson learned from Nigeria’s electoral system.
“This is the second time Ghana has implemented this approach, allowing for faster and more efficient declaration of results,” Yakubu explained in a video statement. He also emphasized the perseverance and resilience demonstrated by key political figures in Ghana, such as Nana Akufo-Addo, who achieved electoral success after multiple attempts, setting a precedent for democratic endurance in the region.
ECOWAS’ Congratulatory Message
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, also extended his congratulations to Mahama and the Ghanaian people for conducting successful and peaceful elections. Touray commended the democratic maturity exhibited during the electoral process and praised the smooth transition of power.
“The President of the ECOWAS Commission congratulates the Ghanaian people on their successful and generally peaceful elections,” read a statement from ECOWAS. Touray lauded Vice President Bawumia’s timely concession of defeat, describing it as a demonstration of statesmanship and love for Ghana.
John Mahama’s Return to Leadership
Mahama’s victory marks his return to Jubilee House, Ghana’s seat of power, following a previous term as president from 2012 to 2017. His return signifies the trust Ghanaians have placed in his leadership and vision for the country’s future. As a seasoned politician with decades of public service, Mahama’s leadership is expected to focus on fostering national unity, economic growth, and regional cooperation.
Strengthening Regional Cooperation
President Tinubu’s statement emphasized the importance of collaboration between Nigeria and Ghana in addressing regional challenges and advancing shared goals. He pledged Nigeria’s support for Mahama’s administration in promoting economic development, democracy, and the rule of law across West Africa.
Conclusion
The congratulatory messages from President Tinubu, INEC, and ECOWAS underscore the significance of Ghana’s peaceful and democratic election. Mahama’s victory, coupled with Vice President Bawumia’s statesmanship, highlights the enduring strength of Ghana’s democratic ethos. As the region looks forward to Mahama’s leadership, the commitment to collaboration and shared prosperity remains a guiding principle for West Africa’s future.
