“I Came in Peace, and I Left in Peace” – Akufo-Addo
The former President highlights his administration's achievements, acknowledges challenges, and expresses gratitude for a peaceful tenure as he bids farewell to public office
- Akufo-Addo takes pride in entering and exiting office peacefully
- His tenure emphasized education reforms, industrial growth, digital transformation, and national security
- Akufo-Addo acknowledged the pandemic as the biggest challenge of his presidency
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed deep satisfaction as he concludes his two-term presidency, emphasizing his commitment to democracy and his peaceful tenure.
Speaking during a thanksgiving mass at Accra Ridge Church on Saturday, 18 January 2025, Akufo-Addo shared heartfelt reflections on his time in office, which officially ended on 7 January 2025.
“I leave office with two great satisfactions: the entrenchment of democratic values in Ghana and the fact that I came in peace and left in peace,” he remarked. Addressing the congregation and dignitaries, Akufo-Addo described the opportunity to serve as Ghana’s President as the “greatest honor” of his life, affirming that he gave his utmost effort in all aspects of governance.
Achievements and Challenges
The former President outlined his administration’s contributions in various sectors, including education, healthcare, industrialization, digital transformation, and environmental protection. He highlighted significant strides in national security amidst regional threats, the revival of Ghana’s economy, and global leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Acknowledging the pandemic as the most formidable challenge of his tenure, he credited divine intervention and the resilience of Ghanaians for overcoming it, with Ghana earning global recognition for its leadership during the crisis.
Faithful Service Acknowledged
The Anglican Bishop of Accra, Rt. Rev Dr. Daniel Sylvanus Mensah Torto, praised God’s guidance over Akufo-Addo’s presidency, noting his health and safety during his high-profile tenure. Citing Lamentations 3:22-23, the Bishop commended the former President’s unwavering faith and commitment to his responsibilities.
The Anglican Church honored Akufo-Addo with a citation recognizing his Free SHS policy, economic reforms, industrialization agenda, and his dedication to democratic principles.
Thanksgiving Ceremony
The service featured scripture readings by former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo and Akufo-Addo himself. Attendees included former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Second Lady Samira Bawumia, NPP leaders, cabinet ministers, and other officials who served during his administration.
In closing, Akufo-Addo expressed confidence in history’s judgment of his governance and prayed for blessings upon the nation. “No matter the controversies, I know from the bottom of my heart that I did my very best for Ghana,” he concluded.
