President John Dramani Mahama has highlighted that the key to Ghana’s future development lies in the unity of its people, rather than division.

Addressing the crowd at the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in Accra on Monday, the President appealed to all Ghanaians, especially religious leaders, community elders, and young people, to embrace peace and mutual respect in building a stronger nation.

"I urge all Ghanaians, especially our religious leaders, community elders, and the youth, to continue fostering peace and understanding amongst us,” President Mahama stated. "Let us reject division, let us reject hatred, and let us reject intolerance. The Ghana we desire can only be built through collaboration and mutual respect."

The President also acknowledged the significant contributions of the Muslim community to the nation’s development, emphasizing their influence in sectors such as education, healthcare, business, and governance.

“Our Muslim communities have made significant contributions to our development, and I must commend them for this,” he said. "From education and healthcare to business and governance, the influence of our Muslim brothers and sisters is evident throughout the country."

He specifically praised the entrepreneurial spirit of Muslim communities, particularly in northern Ghana, noting their vital role in driving local businesses and enriching the cultural diversity of the nation.

“Our Zongo communities remain centres for entrepreneurship and cultural enrichment,” President Mahama remarked.

However, the President also called for efforts to ensure that the development of Muslim-majority areas keeps pace with the rest of the country, emphasizing the need for equitable growth across all regions.

“We must ensure that the development in our Muslim communities is balanced and catches up with the rest of the country,” he urged, underscoring the importance of inclusive national development.

In conclusion, President Mahama encouraged all Ghanaians to unite in their efforts to build a prosperous and forward-thinking nation.