Former President Nana Akufo-Addo has called on Ghanaians to support President John Dramani Mahama's declaration of July 1 as a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.

The government's planning committee paid a visit to the former president's residence, where he praised the move, describing it as one with the potential to unite Ghanaians with diverse religious backgrounds.

“All of us have to support this initiative. It is a worthwhile initiative that we have this one day where all of us come together to give thanks to the Almighty for the many, many blessings He has bestowed upon us,” Akufo-Addo said.

He acknowledged Ghana’s continued political stability despite its history of military interventions, emphasizing the country's standing as one of the few in Africa that has not experienced civil conflict.

Although he noted his absence during the period due to prior engagements, he gave his full moral backing to the upcoming National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.

Chairman of the planning committee, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, expressed appreciation for the former president’s support.

“He welcomed us, endorsed the whole programme and thanked the President for the great initiative. He commended us and we are very grateful,” Ankrah said.

The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving aims to unite Ghanaians across various faiths and political affiliations in a collective moment of reflection and gratitude.

In 2024, prior to becoming president, John Dramani Mahama pledged to establish a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, which will be observed annually across the country.

Speaking at a Thanksgiving service held at the Assemblies of God Church in Accra in June last year, Mahama emphasized the importance of coming together as a nation to offer gratitude and seek divine guidance for the nation's future.

In his address, Mr Mahama underscored the value of dedicating a specific day each year to collectively reflect on the nation's progress and challenges.

He stressed that such a day would serve as an opportunity for Ghanaians to unite in prayer, giving thanks for the blessings received and seeking God’s direction for the country’s continued development.

The President highlighted that the initiative would not only foster national unity but also encourage spiritual reflection among the citizenry.

“I have announced that when I become president, I will institute a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving every year. Every year, as a nation, we will take time off to pray and thank God, and I am going to be a significant part of that Thanksgiving,” Mahama stated.