At the Christian National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), President John Dramani Mahama openly criticized the staggering $400 million cost of Ghana’s National Cathedral project, calling for a more realistic approach to its funding and construction.

Addressing a congregation of Christian leaders, Mahama described the project’s financial demands as excessive, especially in light of Ghana’s current economic challenges.

“The current circumstances that Ghana is going through make no sense for such a project to cost a whopping $400 million,” he stated emphatically.

Drawing comparisons, he noted, “The National Ecumenical Center in Abuja, which is used by all Christian faiths in Nigeria, was built for $30 million. I believe we can achieve a more reasonable figure for such a project.”

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Mahama’s remarks come amid growing public debate surrounding the cathedral, which has been lauded by some as a symbol of national unity but criticized by others as an unnecessary financial burden.

The project, initiated during the Akufo-Addo administration, has faced delays, funding gaps, and controversy over its priority during an economic downturn.

In his speech, Mahama suggested that the project could be re-evaluated to identify cost-saving alternatives, including the possibility of relocating the construction site.

“Such a reconsideration of this project might even include changing the current site that was used for the project. I leave the rest to any future consultation we will have as a body of Christ,” he noted.

This is not the first time the National Cathedral project has come under scrutiny. Critics have pointed to the displacement of residents and the demolition of existing structures to make way for its construction, questioning whether these actions align with the country’s pressing developmental needs.

In a bid to inspire faith leaders and Ghanaians at large, Mahama underscored the importance of integrity and accountability in leadership. “As leaders, we are called to serve with integrity and accountability.

Proverbs 29:2 reminds us, ‘When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.’ I pledge before you, my holy fathers, to ensure a government that is transparent, accountable, and focused on justice and fairness,” he declared to resounding applause.

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