Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, says Ghana cannot continue to name its premier international airport after a figure associated with the violent and unconstitutional overthrow of the country’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

According to the Minister, the naming of the country’s main international gateway must reflect national values, historical truth, and unity, rather than glorifying controversial moments in Ghana’s political past.

“We cannot continue to name our premier international gateway, a symbol of national pride and our first welcome to the world, after a figure associated with the violent and unconstitutional overthrow of our nation’s founder,” he said.

This is a welcome and long-overdue step.
It is time we reclaim our national symbols to reflect our values and heritage.

We cannot continue to name our premier international gateway—a symbol of national pride and our first welcome to the world after a figure associated with the… pic.twitter.com/tfmhz5lpLV

— Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (@ArmahKofiBuah) February 3, 2026

He made the remarks in a post on Tuesday after the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, revealed that the government plans to rename Kotoka International Airport (KIA) as Accra International Airport.

Mr Ayariga made this known while addressing journalists ahead of the first sitting of the Second Session of the 9th Parliament.

He explained that the decision forms part of broader efforts to reflect Ghana’s democratic values and national identity in public institutions.

“Government intends to rename Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport,” the Majority Leader said, noting that a bill would be presented to Parliament in line with established procedures.

On the back of this, the Lands Minister described the move as a welcome and long-overdue step.

“This is a welcome and long-overdue step. It is time we reclaim our national symbols to reflect our values and heritage,” Mr Kofi-Buah added.

He said renaming the facility Accra International Airport would promote neutrality, foster unity and project a forward-looking national identity.