President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghana’s leaders to honour the memory of the eight victims of last year’s military helicopter crash through responsible leadership, stronger institutions and improved safety standards rather than symbolic monuments.
Speaking at the National Inter-Faith Memorial Service to commemorate the first anniversary of the tragedy, the President said the devastating loss should serve as a lasting reminder that leadership carries a profound responsibility because every decision made in public office affects lives.
“Today should also be a moment of reflection for all of us who are entrusted with leadership, that every decision we make affects lives.”
President Mahama said the deaths of the eight public servants must inspire a renewed commitment to strengthening governance and protecting those who dedicate their lives to serving the nation.
“Leadership is not measured merely by the authority we exercise, but by the responsibility we bear for the lives and welfare of those who serve our nation.”
He stressed that Ghana has a duty to ensure that lessons from the tragedy are translated into meaningful reforms.
“Their memory therefore imposes upon us a solemn obligation to build stronger institutions, to strengthen safety standards wherever necessary, to invest in the welfare of our personnel, and to ensure that no lesson from this tragedy will ever be forgotten.”
According to the President, the most enduring way to remember the departed heroes is not through physical monuments but by creating a safer and more accountable public service.
“The greatest memorial we can build is not one made of stone or bronze. It is one that is built through responsible leadership, improved systems, a steadfast commitment to protecting those who dedicate their lives to Ghana.”
President Mahama urged leaders at all levels to use the anniversary as an opportunity to recommit themselves to integrity, accountability and the protection of public servants, saying these would be the most meaningful tributes to those who lost their lives in service to the nation.
The memorial service marked one year since the military helicopter crash on August 6, 2025, which claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah; Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna; National Democratic Congress Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong; former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah while they were on official national duty.
The tragedy remains one of Ghana’s darkest national disasters and prompted renewed discussions on aviation safety, leadership responsibility and the welfare of public servants.
