President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday led a high-profile Nigerian delegation, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, to the inauguration of Ghana’s new President, John Mahama, in Accra.

Other attendees included Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, several other state governors, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed.

Speaking as a special guest, Tinubu reaffirmed the commitment of African leaders to protect the continent’s peace and unity against external interference.

“Today, I am here not only as the President of Nigeria but as an African in resolute support of Ghana and her people,” Tinubu said. “The sun is out, and the sky says daylight, but I see today a Black Star rising high in the African sky.”

Mahama, who secured 56.6% of votes in Ghana’s December election, returned to office eight years after his initial tenure. He has pledged to stabilise Ghana’s economy and prioritise rural development amid significant challenges, including high unemployment and inflation.

The ceremony was attended by regional leaders, including Presidents William Ruto of Kenya, Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone. Tinubu described Mahama as a “brother” and expressed his readiness to collaborate for the mutual benefit of Nigeria and Ghana.

Ghana, Africa’s top gold exporter, is recovering from an economic downturn that saw inflation peak at 54.1% in December 2022. Mahama’s National Democratic Congress (NDC) is poised to secure a supermajority in parliament, which will aid the implementation of his legislative agenda.

Mahama’s inauguration inspired jubilant celebrations in Accra’s Black Star Square, with thousands of supporters expressing hope for a brighter future. “This is the dawn of a new era,” said Akosua Nyarko, a teacher from Cape Coast.