The leadership of President John Dramani Mahama in the West African sub-region and on the global stage continues to attract widespread attention. His recent endorsement by ministers of the African Union is a testament to his sterling leadership following his return to office as President of Ghana.
Shadrach Baa-Naa Kundi, Director of Operations and Research at the Africa Centre for International Affairs, made these remarks during the Adekye Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM in Accra, hosted by Kofi Owusu.
According to Mr. Kundi, President Mahama’s candid diplomacy—particularly his willingness to engage Alliance of Sahel States (AES) countries despite their undemocratic political circumstances—demonstrates his quiet but effective role in bridge-building across the sub-region. He noted that this inclusive approach reflects the President’s forward-looking vision of fostering peaceful coexistence among member states.
In another development, President Mahama has increasingly portrayed himself as a unifier within the sub-region. The AES—comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—is a military alliance formed in 2023 to pursue mutual security and economic objectives, operating separately from ECOWAS.
Members of the AES have reportedly felt sidelined by other states in the sub-region due to their emergence through unconstitutional changes in government. However, President Mahama has engaged these countries, pledging solidarity and collaboration toward the collective fight against insecurity while also promoting regional trade.
This approach reflects Ghana’s long-standing foreign policy tradition, first articulated by Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and upheld by successive governments, which emphasizes good neighbourliness and the advancement of Pan-African unity.
Mr. Kundi believes that President Mahama’s unanimous endorsement is timely and highly strategic, though he cautioned that Africa’s broader political landscape remains complex and will require deeper mutual understanding and a clear roadmap to achieve lasting peace among nations.
In a related development, President John Dramani Mahama has been formally installed as Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II. The colourful traditional ceremony took place in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
The highly respected Yoruba title, interpreted as “a President who reorders the global space for the good of humanity,” was conferred in recognition of President Mahama’s leadership record and his consistent advocacy for global cooperation, fairness, and sustainable development.
This honour places him among a select group of leaders recognised for their influence beyond national borders. The installation followed several days of traditional preparations at the Ooni’s palace, marked by customary rites and cultural observances. The palace grounds were adorned with rich traditional décor as chiefs, dignitaries, and members of the Yoruba community gathered to witness what many described as a historic and symbolic event.
This latest recognition adds to President Mahama’s growing list of traditional honours within the Yoruba cultural sphere. In October 2015, he was conferred with the title Aare Atolase of Offa by the Offa Kingdom in Kwara State, in acknowledgement of his contributions to leadership, peace, and diplomacy on the African continent.
Observers say the honour is expected to further strengthen cultural and diplomatic ties between Ghana and Nigeria, underscoring the enduring historical bonds between the two nations.
The Ooni of Ife, one of the most revered traditional authorities among the Yoruba people, continues to play a significant role in promoting cultural heritage, interfaith harmony, and socio-economic development across Nigeria and the wider African diaspora.