The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called off plans by staff of the Ministry to organise a ceremonial welcome for him at the Accra International Airport, following Ghana’s recent diplomatic success at the United Nations.
In a Facebook post ahead of his return to the country, Hon Ablakwa revealed that he had learned of a planned “surprise welcome” arranged by staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a gesture typically reserved for celebrating significant national achievements.
However, the Minister firmly declined the honour, stressing that the achievement belongs to Ghana as a whole and not to any individual.
“I have become aware of an intended surprise welcome by the staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs scheduled for my arrival in Ghana tomorrow,” he wrote.
Hon. Ablakwa acknowledged that such ceremonies are part of the Ministry’s tradition of marking major milestones and commending national efforts. Despite appreciating the gesture, he said he instructed management to cancel the event immediately.
“I have expressed my appreciation to management for their thoughtful gesture and instructed that all such plans to offer me a surprise welcome at the Airport be cancelled immediately,” he stated.
He further emphasised that he would have objected to the idea had he been consulted beforehand, reiterating his belief in collective national effort over personal recognition.
“I would have strongly opposed the idea if I had been consulted. This is not a personal victory, and besides, there is more work ahead of us.”
The Minister also took the opportunity to commend the staff of the Ministry for their dedication and professionalism, attributing Ghana’s growing influence on the global stage to teamwork and strong leadership.
“God bless all our dynamic and talented staff at the MFA and bless our dear country even more to keep winning on the global stage under the guidance of President John Mahama.”
