Mahama reveals the nickname Akufo-Addo gave him
President John Dramani Mahama (L) and former President Nana Akufo-Addo (R)
President John Dramani Mahama has reflected on his fondest memories with former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Addressing a large gathering at the Black Star Square during his swearing-in ceremony on January 7, 2025, Mahama reminisced about his relationship with Akufo-Addo, recalling the moment when he peacefully handed over power to him in 2016, a gesture that has been mirrored in 2025.
According to Mahama, Akufo-Addo has consistently extended warm receptions and hospitality to him, despite both having contested for the highest office in the land from opposing sides.
He shared the lighter side of their relationship, revealing how Akufo-Addo affectionately named him “Johnny”, signifying their friendship and their strong bond for each other.
“It seems fitting that it is with Nana Akufo-Addo that I twice shared this stage and this unique historical distinction. Akufo-Addo and I began our national political careers in Parliament in the same year of 1996.
“He has always greeted me with warmth, a firm handshake and a smile and he is perhaps the only person in my life who has persistently chosen to call me Johnny,” he said.
The distinguished statesman expressed his deep respect for Akufo-Addo, acknowledging the statesmanship he has demonstrated in the period of their political battles.
“While we belong to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect. In those early days, we probably couldn’t have imagined that destiny would bring us to the leadership of our respective parties and that we would have to face off three separate times as we each vie for the highest office of the land…” Mahama concluded.
