“It is with great sadness that we heard of the untimely passing of President John Evans Atta Mills,” a statement from MTN Group said. It said MTN extends its heartfelt condolences to the First Lady Mrs. Naadu Mills, the bereaved family, as well as the Government and people of Ghana on the loss of Ghana’s President. The statement noted that Ghana and Africa have lost a great man and one of Africa’s fearless leaders, who dedicated his life to the service of his people. It quoted MTN Ghana CEO, Michael Ikpoki as saying “I express my deepest and sincere condolences at this time of national grief. I personally recollect my encounter with His Excellency when I assumed office in Ghana last year. His warm reception remains in my memory.” He said, as an African multinational, MTN believes this is a sad moment not only for Ghanaians, but for the entire continent of Africa, adding that President Mills’ belief in African unity and the African’s ability to be self-dependent remains cherished by all. MTN Group Chief Operations Executive, Ahmad Farouk was also quoted as saying “I received the sad news of the passing of His Excellency, President John Atta Mills with a most grave heart. I can only imagine the sense of loss all Ghanaians are feeling at this time. Please accept my sincere condolences as I commiserate with all of you and indeed all Ghanaians at this trying time. “ Group President and Chief Executive Sifiso Dabengwa also said, “The President’s work and dedication to the Republic of Ghana was an excellent example of his firm commitment to the defense of liberty and human dignity. He will be remembered for being a staunch supporter of the economic integration and interdependence of African countries.” The statement said during this period of mourning, MTN urges all Ghanaians to keep faith and to continue to pray for the family of President Atta Mills and the entire nation.