The Minister for Local Government Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has commended the committee overseeing the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Day for what he described as a successful maiden edition of the programme last year.
Speaking at a meeting with the committee on May 28, 2026, the Minister encouraged members to maintain the same spirit and unity as preparations intensify for the second edition scheduled for July 1, 2026.
According to the Minister, the success of the first National Prayer and Thanksgiving Day was by the grace of God and marked a significant recognition of God in the affairs of the nation. He noted that the programme brought together Christians and Muslims in a spirit of unity to pray and give thanks for Ghana’s progress.
He further stated that the initiative also offered the Presidency an opportunity to share its vision for governance and demonstrate its commitment to faith-based leadership.
The Minister attributed recent economic gains, including cedi appreciation, declining inflation, and improved debt indicators, to what he described as “the God factor” in governance. He cited figures indicating inflation had dropped from 22.8 percent to 3.4 percent, while the debt-to-GDP ratio reduced from 104.9 percent to 42 percent within a year.
He also referenced Ghana’s efforts to exit the IMF programme, improvements in buffer stock operations, and initiatives toward import substitution industrialisation as signs of progress.
Mr Ahmed urged the committee to remain focused despite criticisms and continue working towards a successful event this year. He stressed the importance of unity among charismatic, Pentecostal, orthodox and traditional Christian groups, as well as the Muslim community, noting that such collaboration contributed significantly to the success of the maiden edition.
He also commended President John Dramani Mahama for his dedication to national development and called for continued prayers for the Presidency.
Chairman of the committee, in his remarks, thanked the Ministry for its support and unveiled the theme for this year’s programme: “Resetting Our Values to Build the Ghana We Want.”
He explained that national development depends not only on natural resources but also on the mindset, work ethic and values of citizens. He added that the theme is inspired by both biblical and Quranic teachings, citing Romans 12:2 and Qur’an 13:11.
The Chairman assured the Minister that the committee had reviewed last year’s programme and is committed to improving upon the successes while addressing identified challenges.
A member of the committee representing the Office of the National Chief Imam, Hajia Hanatu Abubakar-Bimi, also elaborated on the theme, emphasizing the need for renewed commitment to values such as integrity, discipline, responsibility, innovation and unity in nation-building.
