The Member of Parliament for Krachi East, Nelson Kofi Djabab, has described the newly instituted National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving as “a step in the right direction”, urging Ghanaians to use the day for reflection, unity, and a return to spiritual values.

Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Tuesday morning, Mr Djabab commended the national leadership for setting aside 1st July for prayer and thanksgiving, stressing the importance of God’s guidance in Ghana’s journey as a nation.

“The National Day of Prayer is very important,” he said. “Our forefathers began the struggle for independence and sovereignty with God. Ghanaians knew God long before the arrival of the Europeans.... we cannot do this just by our own might or strength, but only with the help of God.”

He emphasised that the day should not be treated as a mere formality but as a reminder of the values behind Ghana’s independence and republican status.

“As we pray and seek God’s intervention, we must not forget why we fought for independence, why Ghana became a republic among the nations in the West African sub-region,” he said. “In 1960, we lifted the flag of Ghana high. We pledged to work hard to ensure that mother Ghana stands tall, and this day reminds us of that promise.”

Earlier this year, President John Dramani Mahama officially declared 1st July, traditionally observed as Republic Day, as Ghana’s National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.

The President said the initiative recognises the exceptional religious harmony the country enjoys and offers a moment for national reflection and spiritual renewal.

“One of Ghana’s greatest blessings is the harmony with which we practise our diverse faiths. Christians, Muslims and traditionalists — we worship differently, but we work together as one people. This is a national treasure that we must never take for granted,” President Mahama stated.

Mr Djabab echoed this sentiment, saying the day speaks to the very identity of the Ghanaian people. “This is not just a ceremonial occasion; it is a national call to action,” he added. “This day speaks to the heart of who we are as Ghanaians – spiritually grounded, resilient, and united.”

He called for responsibility and national effort.

“We must pray, yes, but we must also work. Faith without effort is incomplete. Let us lift Ghana up in prayer and then rise to build the Ghana we want.”