President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to embrace integrity, discipline, patriotism and compassion as the foundation for national development, stressing that true transformation depends on both responsible leadership and moral renewal among citizens.
Delivering the keynote address at the 2nd National Thanksgiving Service held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, under the theme “Resetting Our Values to Build the Ghana We Want,” the President said Ghana’s progress is shaped not only by government policies but also by the everyday choices of citizens.
He said the nation gathered not as divided groups but as one people under God, adding that the annual service offers an opportunity for reflection, gratitude and renewal of national purpose.
President Mahama noted that throughout Ghana’s history, faith has remained a key pillar of national identity, especially in times of challenge and progress.
He stressed that while laws and government programmes can guide behaviour, they cannot instill values such as honesty, integrity and patriotism.
According to him, national transformation is ultimately driven by teachers, health workers, farmers, public servants, journalists, parents and citizens who choose to act responsibly in their daily lives.
He urged Ghanaians to remain thankful despite recent challenges, including devastating floods that affected parts of the country, saying gratitude remains essential even in difficult times.
Quoting biblical passages including 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and Psalm 100:4, the President encouraged citizens to maintain faith and trust in God’s guidance.
President Mahama also described Ghana’s recent economic recovery as significant, attributing it to prudent management, discipline and national sacrifice, while acknowledging that challenges such as unemployment and business financing gaps remain.
He cautioned that economic progress cannot be sustained without integrity and accountability, warning that prosperity without moral discipline is fragile.
The President further called for unity, urging citizens to reject political, ethnic and religious divisions and to see national identity as more important than sectional interests.
He commended religious leaders, traditional authorities, public servants, security agencies and workers across all sectors for their contributions to national stability and development.
Addressing the youth, he encouraged them to pursue discipline, skill development and integrity, urging them to avoid shortcuts and substance abuse.
President Mahama concluded by urging citizens to commit themselves to honesty, service and national development, stressing that Ghana’s future will be shaped by the daily actions of its people in homes, schools, workplaces and communities.
He expressed optimism that with unity and moral discipline, Ghana’s future remains bright and sustainable.
