President John Dramani Mahama has marked one year of his presidency with a national thanksgiving service at Jubilee House, framing the milestone as a moment of reflection, humility and renewed commitment rather than political celebration.
The non-denominational service, held under the theme Resetting, Rebuilding and Renewing, brought together state officials, members of the clergy, diplomats, security chiefs, political leaders, students and members of the public to give thanks for peace, stability and the opportunity to serve.
“Today we gather not as members of different faiths or political traditions, but as one people united in gratitude, humility, and reflection. Today we gather to give thanks. We give thanks for life, we give thanks for peace, and we give thanks for the opportunity to serve”.
President John Dramani Mahama
Addressing the gathering, President Mahama recalled the events of a year ago when Ghanaians gathered at the Black Star Square to witness the swearing in of a new administration amid high expectations and deep economic uncertainty. He noted that while the nation began the journey together, some colleagues who shared in that historic moment were no longer alive.
He led the congregation in observing a moment of silence in honour of the late Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Dr Samuel Sarpong, Samuel Aboagye, Alhaji Muniru Limuna and three military servicemen, describing them as partners in a shared national journey whose memories must be cherished.
Affirmation of Purpose and Gratitude
The President stressed that the thanksgiving service was not a declaration of triumph or a celebration of power. Instead, he described it as a reaffirmation of purpose and gratitude for the trust placed in his administration by the Ghanaian people.
He said leadership is both a privilege and a heavy responsibility, one that exposes leaders to the full weight of economic hardship, social anxiety, and global uncertainty.
According to him, the past year has tested the resilience of both government and citizens, yet Ghana’s democratic institutions have remained strong and the people have shown patience and faith in the future.
President Mahama expressed gratitude to God for protection, peace and national stability, noting that no government succeeds by human effort alone.
“Whatever name we give to our divine belief and faith, we recognise that no government succeeds through human effort alone. Wisdom cannot be manufactured.
“Strength is not infinite. Guidance is not automatic. We therefore pause today to acknowledge that humility before a higher purpose is essential to responsible leadership.
President John Dramani Mahama
The President paid tribute to ordinary Ghanaians whose daily efforts keep the country functioning. He acknowledged farmers, traders, workers, teachers, health professionals, security personnel, artisans, entrepreneurs and public servants for their dedication and sacrifices.
He also commended traditional authorities and religious leaders for offering moral guidance and counsel, as well as Ghana’s international partners and members of the diplomatic corps for supporting bilateral relations and cooperation.
Parliament and the judiciary were also recognised for their constitutional roles in strengthening accountability and governance. President Mahama said constructive criticism from citizens has been vital in shaping government action and ensuring responsiveness.
He emphasised that national progress depends on mutual trust between leaders and the people, as well as a shared belief that Ghana can do better.
Eulogy to the Vice President
In a personal moment during the address, the President expressed appreciation for Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, describing her as a woman of dignity and quiet strength and acknowledging her historic role as the first woman to hold the office.
He said her support has been critical in helping him shoulder the responsibilities entrusted to the administration. He also briefly referenced his wife, Lordina Mahama, noting her support behind the scenes.
The thanksgiving service served as a symbolic pause in the governing calendar, allowing the administration to reflect on its first year while reinforcing its commitment to national renewal.
President Mahama said the mandate given to his government a year ago was clear: to restore hope, stabilise the economy and reset the direction of national development.
While he did not enumerate specific policy achievements, his remarks suggested that the coming years will require continued discipline, unity and faith to consolidate gains and confront ongoing challenges.
A Charge to Uphold Unity
He concluded by urging Ghanaians to remain united across political, religious and social lines, stressing that gratitude and humility are essential to responsible leadership and sustainable development.
He prayed for continued peace and strength for the nation, expressing confidence that with shared purpose and commitment, Ghana can emerge stronger.
As the country reflects on the first year of the Mahama administration, the thanksgiving service underscored a leadership style that seeks to anchor governance in reflection, inclusion and moral responsibility.
The message from Jubilee House was clear: the reset agenda is ongoing, and its success depends not only on government action but on collective national resolve.
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