Here's why President Mahama prays for Nigeria every day

President John Dramani Mahama has said he prays for Nigeria daily, stressing that the country’s success is closely tied to Ghana’s stability and growth.

Speaking at the African Heritage Awards 2026, he said a strong Nigeria would reduce pressure on Ghana as many citizens often move in search of better opportunities.

When John Dramani Mahama is gone

He explained that because of Nigeria’s large population and influence in the region, its progress benefits neighbouring countries like Ghana.

“Nigeria is of keen security interest to us. If Nigeria does well, Ghana does well, and when you have cousins, 250 million of them, you want them to do well,” he said.

President Mahama added that he often prays for Nigeria’s progress to help reduce the migration pressure on Ghana.

“So, that 1 million of them don't come drifting towards a small country like Ghana… so, every day I wake up, I pray for Nigeria. I say, Lord, let Nigeria get their act together,” he stated.

He also shared a past diplomatic experience involving Nigeria’s leadership transition, explaining how he engaged the late former President Muhammadu Buhari over a joint regional matter.

“… We all nominated Akin, then there was a sudden change of government in Nigeria, and a new government came. And because Akin had been Minister of Agriculture in the previous government, we didn't know whether we were going to support him. I invited President Buhari to Peduase Lodge.

"That's where the peace agreement for Biafra was signed. It's a historic place. And for the first time, we saw President Buhari smile. I took him to the lodge. I showed him where Nkrumah's bedroom was. We sat on the balcony,” he said.

President John Dramani Mahama further noted that the meeting ended on a positive note, with assurances on a joint position.

President Mahama, Dr Adesina make case for investment-driven future for Africa

“We chatted and then, when I had put him in the best mood, and he was smiling, I said, president, you know, Akin Adesila is our joint candidate, Ghana and Nigeria. And we agree with President Jonathan. So, I hope you're not going to make a change and he assured me that Akin was their candidate,” he said.

“Every day I wake up, I pray for Nigeria and say, ‘God, let Nigeria get its act together.’”

— President John Dramani Mahama, during his speech at the African Heritage Awards 2026, delivered a stirring message on the importance of unity and innovation in driving Africa toward a… pic.twitter.com/1rE1UyPlNP

— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) April 13, 2026