President John Dramani Mahama to Nominate Security Ministers to Address National Concerns

President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to nominate officials to key security ministries and agencies within the week.

The move aims to ensure swift management of the country’s security architecture and address pressing security concerns.

The President made the announcement during a visit to Bawku, where he called on the Bawku Naba, Zugraan Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, Overlord of the Kusaug Traditional Area, at his palace.

The visit was part of President Mahama’s commitment to engage feuding factions and stakeholders in resolving the protracted Bawku Chieftaincy conflict, which has persisted for decades.

The President assured the chiefs and people of Bawku of his determination to achieve lasting peace in the area to foster socio-economic development.

“So, within this week, we will make appointments for the Minister of Defence, Minister of the Interior, the National Security Advisor, the National Security Coordinator, the National Intelligence Bureau Director, and others. Once these appointments are made, I will charge them to prioritize Bawku and address its issues comprehensively,” he stated.

President Mahama reiterated that bringing peace to Bawku is a top priority for his administration, and he intends to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to accomplish this goal.

“During the campaign, I made it clear that, with God’s help, if I became President, bringing peace to Bawku would be one of my top priorities.

“Today marks exactly one week since I was sworn in at the Black Star Square. This is my first major assignment outside Accra, and I came to assure you that we will work tirelessly to restore peace to Bawku,” he added.

The President recalled that during his previous tenure, Bawku and its environs were peaceful, with residents freely going about their daily activities. He expressed sadness that the situation has deteriorated in recent years.

“It is unfortunate that the situation has worsened again. I know you have endured sleepless nights and immense stress over the past three years. Rest assured, our government will make restoring peace in Bawku a priority so that everyone can live without fear or harassment,” he emphasized.

President Mahama, acknowledging his understanding of the issues in Bawku, appealed to the chiefs and residents for patience as the government works towards a permanent solution.

“We cannot live in a country where people feel unsafe. Our citizens must be able to travel freely and safely at all times without fear of violence. You can count on us to resolve these challenges, so peace can prevail, allowing traditional areas to thrive,” he affirmed.

The President was accompanied by Felix Ofosu Kwakye, Acting Spokesperson to the President, and Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for the Bawku Central Constituency.

Later, the President is expected to visit the Nayiri, Naa Bohagu Abdulai Mahami Sheriga, Overlord of Mamprugu, in Nalerigu in the North East Region.

At least 40 people have lost their lives since the conflict re-emerged in October 2024.

Watch as religious leaders pray for Mahama and his family’s well being