Former President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, delivered a powerful lecture at the graduation ceremony for Course 33 of the Nigerian National Defence College (NDC), urging African nations to strengthen their institutions to ensure good governance and sustainable development.
Speaking on the theme “Strengthening Institutions for Good Governance in Africa,” Akufo-Addo shared insights from Ghana’s own reform journey, presenting them as a model for the continent.
In his address on Monday, August 18, 2025, the former president highlighted the importance of strong, stable institutions for social cohesion, economic growth, and the rule of law. He noted that while Africa has made remarkable progress since the early 1990s, much more needs to be done to address persistent challenges like corruption, insecurity, and weak democratic cultures.
Akufo-Addo pointed to Ghana’s governance reforms, particularly the adoption of a new democratic constitution, as a key factor in its progress. He emphasized that these reforms have made Ghana a “role model in democratic rule,” allowing opposition parties to peacefully defeat incumbent governments in free and fair elections.
“I stand here as a beneficiary of these reforms,” he stated, referring to his own political journey. He also praised Ghana’s Electoral Commission for receiving both domestic and global acclaim for its credible management of recent elections.
Beyond electoral reforms, the former president also underscored the critical role of education in nurturing good governance. He highlighted his government’s Free Senior High School education policy, which he said rapidly expanded access and significantly enhanced the quality of educational outcomes.
According to Akufo-Addo, this policy helped raise Ghana’s adult literacy rate from 64% in 2016 to 84% in 2024. He stressed that education promotes civic awareness, critical thinking, and informed participation in democratic development.
Akufo-Addo also addressed the critical role of the military, stating his firm belief in their professional and politically neutral role. He referenced Ghana’s recent establishment of the College of Defence Studies and its subsequent charter as an autonomous National Defence University, noting that it was rooted in the need for self-reliance in developing military and civilian leaders.
He asserted that coups are less likely when soldiers are loyal to the constitution, institutions are strong, and the economy provides jobs and services for all.
The former president concluded by congratulating the graduating class, reminding them that they are “not just soldiers” but “guardians of peace, defenders of the constitution, and symbols of integrity for your nation”.
