President Nana Akufo-Addo expressed that serving the Ghanaian people has been both “one of the greatest honors” and “greatest challenges” of his life during his final State of the Nation Address (SONA) on January 3, 2025.
Reflecting on his time in office, he also noted the nation’s resilience, saying, “Ghana, by the grace of God, remains the only country that has not fallen victim to terrorist violence.”
The President paid tribute to the nation’s security services and their leadership for their dedication to keeping the country safe, stating, “I want to pay great homage to the security service and their ministerial leaders for the work they do every day to keep us safe.”
However, the President acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by the nation, particularly the unresolved Bawku conflict, which has led to significant loss of life.
“It is a matter of great regret and distress to me personally that, despite our efforts, the Bawku conflict remains unresolved,” he remarked. The Bawku conflict, which has claimed many lives over the years, continues to pose a serious challenge to national stability.
The final SONA, delivered in accordance with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, was attended by various prominent figures including Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, President-elect John Dramani Mahama, former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Chief Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah, First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo, and Second Lady Samira Bawumia.
Traditional and religious leaders were also present, reflecting the wide-reaching significance of this final address from President Akufo-Addo before the dissolution of the 8th Parliament.
