President John Dramani Mahama has pledged to launch an investigation into the National Cathedral Project, initiated by former President Akufo-Addo as a symbol of Ghana’s Christian heritage.

The project has faced allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement, prompting widespread concern about its viability and transparency.

Addressing a Christian National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), on Sunday, 12 January, President Mahama expressed doubts over the financial prudence of pursuing such a venture amidst the country’s economic challenges.

He emphasised the need for accountability, highlighting the importance of safeguarding public resources.

“With regard to the contentious National Cathedral, CHRAJ directed the government to audit the project and investigate potential misuse of public funds. We will soon initiate a thorough investigation into this matter,” the President assured attendees.

Criticising the cost of the initiative, President Mahama questioned its justification. “In Ghana’s current economic circumstances, spending $400 million on such a project is inexplicable."

“This project must be completed at a reasonable cost. Given the current circumstances that Ghana is facing, it makes no sense to undertake such a project at a whooping sum of $400 million. I am informed that the National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja, which serves all Christian denominations in Nigeria, was built at a cost of $30 million. I believe we can achieve this project at a much more reasonable figure, and together, we can raise the necessary funds,” he said.

The president added that if his government decides to continue the project, the location will also be reconsidered.

“Such a reconsideration of this project might even include changing the current site that was chosen for the project,” he said.

Mr Mahama further emphasised that state funds would not be used for the project, stating, “On the future of the project, the Cathedral, I believe that all of us, as Christians, must forge a consensus on how to achieve this project without recourse to public funds.”