The 2012 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, has been adjudged Ghana’s most influential personality for 2013.

The award, put together by eTV-Ghana, was based on Nana Akufo Addo’s response and reaction after the 2012 presidential election petition verdict.

It was also to recognise the peace and stability he ensured, especially among his party supporters, following the Supreme Court judgement concerning the petition.

Nana Akufo Addo speaks

Speaking at the award ceremony in Accra, Nana Akufo Addo said he was humbled by the honour done him, noting that he had accepted the challenge the award posed to him.

The 2012 presidential aspirant indicated that he had always dedicated himself to serving the nation, and was not prepared to give up.

“As I said on the day of the verdict on August 29,2013 and let me recall my very upbringing and in what I have done with my life thus far, makes it imperative that I accept a decision made by the highest court of the land, however much I dislike or disagree with it,” he emphasised.

Influential leader

Explaining who an influential person or leader is, Nana Akufo Addo said it meant someone able to change, hopefully in a positive manner, the way people thought and behaved.

“If a few more Ghanaians would have been moved by my conduct in the election petition to become ardent believers in the rule of law and be persuaded to accept personal disappointments to the greater good of our nation, I daresay my adversity, which I consider to be temporary, would have been worth it,” he said.

Ready to serve nation

“Growing up as a young boy in the heart of Accra, I had it as my dream to fight for the cause of my country. Decades later, that dream still lives on and now, even more than ever.

“I have understood my calling as a lawyer, businessman and politician to serve my society, my people and my country. And it is my belief that we can only build a strong and prosperous Ghana on a solid foundation of personal integrity and love of our nation,” Nana Addo added.

He indicated that Ghanaians were yearning for inspired leaders, and added that it was time to close ranks as a people and unite in the singular purpose of developing the nation.

He further added that “throughout history, it is when things are at their most difficult that there has been the need for great leaders.”

He expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the organisers of the award ceremony and thanked all those who played a pivotal role in ensuring his election as the winner.