President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to investigate the National Cathedral Project, an initiative introduced by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as a national Christian worship center and a symbol of Ghana’s religious heritage.
The project, plagued by allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement, has sparked widespread concerns about its execution and funding.
Speaking at a Christian National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), President Mahama expressed his intent to audit the project and investigate potential misuse of public funds.
“On the vexed issue of the National Cathedral, CHRAJ directed the government to audit the project and investigate any misuse of public funds.
We will soon activate an investigation into the project,” he stated.
He further criticized the estimated $400 million cost of the initiative, contrasting it with Nigeria’s National Ecumenical Centre, which was reportedly built for $30 million.
The President emphasized that Christians must build consensus on how to achieve such projects without relying on public funds, especially given Ghana’s current economic challenges.
The service drew notable attendees, including Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, First Lady Lordina Mahama, religious leaders, MPs, chiefs, queen mothers, and members of the public. Prominent clergy such as Archbishop Nicholas Duncan Williams, Bishop Charles Agyinasare, Rev. Dr. Stephen Wengam, and Rev. Sam Korankye Ankrah were present, leading prayers for the President and his administration.
President Mahama’s announcement reflects his administration’s commitment to accountability and prudent spending, signaling a shift towards prioritizing national development projects over costly initiatives like the National Cathedral.
The project, initially presented as a personal vow by former President Akufo-Addo, was expected to be privately funded.
However, over $58 million in public funds has reportedly been spent, with an estimated $450 million required to complete it.
At the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at UPSA, H.E. John Dramani Mahama questioned the $400 million cost of the National Cathedral project, describing it as impractical given Ghana’s economic challenges.
He urged an audit, as advised by CHRAJ, and suggested completing… pic.twitter.com/etn6AEwZUd
— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) January 12, 2025
