President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Ghana’s President-elect, John Mahama, following his victory in the country’s December 7, 2024, general election. This comes after Mahama’s rival, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat on Sunday, amid reported tensions in several constituencies. While the official results are yet to be announced by Ghana’s Electoral Commission, Bawumia’s ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) indicated through an internal review that Mahama was leading with 56.3% of the vote, compared to Bawumia’s 41.3%.
In a statement signed by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed his hope that Mahama’s second-term presidency would contribute to further stability in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), of which President Tinubu is the chairman. Tinubu praised the people of Ghana for their commitment to democracy, as evidenced by the peaceful conduct of both the presidential and parliamentary elections.
Tinubu also commended the peaceful concession by Vice President Bawumia, noting that it reinforced Ghana’s democratic values. He acknowledged Bawumia’s role in helping to de-escalate tensions by accepting the election results prior to the official announcement by the Electoral Commission. This, according to Tinubu, demonstrated Ghana’s dedication to democratic principles and political stability.
The Nigerian President highlighted Mahama’s return to the presidency, noting it reflected the trust the Ghanaian people have in his leadership and vision for the country. Mahama, who served as Ghana’s President from 2012 to 2017, has a long history of public service, including his roles as Vice President from 2009 to 2012 and as a Member of Parliament. Tinubu expressed his confidence that Mahama’s leadership would continue to contribute to the progress of Ghana and the region.
Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the historical and cultural ties between Nigeria and Ghana. He also expressed his eagerness to work with Mahama’s incoming administration to further enhance bilateral relations, deepen regional cooperation, and advance the shared Pan-African goals of democracy, the rule of law, and economic integration. The Nigerian leader also thanked outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo for his leadership and contributions to regional peace and stability.
