Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has praised NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu-Nketia for instilling values that have shaped his political career.

He described Asiedu-Nketia as his “political godfather,” saying the NDC stalwart groomed and guided him for nearly two decades, helping him rise through the ranks as a Member of Parliament, a parliamentary leader, and now, a Minister of State.

Ahmed Ibrahim made these remarks during a thanksgiving service at the Church of Pentecost, Sakumono District, Sophia Cudjoe Temple.

The event marked his re-election to Parliament and his appointment as a minister.

The Banda MP, who entered Parliament in 2009 and is now serving his fifth term, recounted how Asiedu-Nketia encouraged him to contest the seat when he was still a political novice.

“He taught me to be truthful, and that has been my guiding principle,” he said.

“General Mosquito [Asiedu-Nketia] eschews lies because it brings one’s spirit down. He urged me to be hardworking, compassionate, respectful, and to live by Christian values.”

The Minister also acknowledged Asiedu-Nketia’s selfless mentorship and willingness to share his experience as a former minister and three-term MP.

He said such generosity was an example for younger politicians who must avoid chasing short-term glory in public life.

Mr. Ibrahim recalled the struggles he faced as an opposition MP, including attempts by the state machinery to unseat him during elections.

“In all the years of battles and struggles, General Mosquito stood firmly behind me,” he noted, describing Asiedu-Nketia as a leader worthy of emulation.

“I am eternally grateful to General and ask for God’s blessings upon him,” he added.

Ahmed Ibrahim, who was officially sworn in as Minister on January 24, 2025, confirmed the upcoming National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving Service scheduled for July 1, 2025.

The event will be decentralised and observed across all districts.

He said the service is expected to uplift Ghana spiritually and economically, and that its impact would be evident under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama.

“The Thanksgiving will help Ghana progress, including stabilising the cedi and realising other aspects of the reset agenda by President Mahama,” he declared.

In his sermon, Apostle Wilberforce Nkrumah Agyemang, Teshie Nungua Area Head of the Church of Pentecost, called on Christians to pray for the nation’s leaders so they can make decisions that positively impact citizens.

He emphasised the need for transformational leadership that achieves extraordinary results, breaks new ground, and sets new records.

“Ghana needs leaders who achieve outstanding successes with overwhelming impacts and go beyond the ordinary in commanding the affairs of life,” he said.

He also urged the Minister and other public officials to make “godly adjustments” in their spiritual and personal lives, stressing that such transformation attracts divine blessings that benefit the people they serve.

The Thanksgiving service was attended by top NDC leaders led by Chairman Johnson Asiedu-Nketia, Bono Regional Chairman Kwadwo Nyamekye Marfo, Bono Regional Minister Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Members of Parliament, government appointees, friends, family, and the wife of Ahmed Ibrahim.