President John Dramani Mahama met with the Regent of Dagbon, Kampakuya‑Naa Yakubu II, during a courtesy visit that also welcomed the Regent’s delegation to the Presidency. The meeting followed the late Ya‑Naa Abukari II’s recent death and the government’s support for his illness and funeral arrangements.
Mahama described the peace in Dagbon as precious and urged traditional leaders to safeguard it through their words, decisions and treatment of one another. He said, “The peace of Dagbon is precious, and we must protect it through our words, our decisions and our treatment of one another.” The President called for continued engagement with families and communities to strengthen unity and resolve differences through dialogue.
The President extended condolences to the Regent over the loss of his father, noting that every effort had been made to secure medical treatment for the late Ya‑Naa, including a trip to South Africa. He praised the late ruler as a bridge‑builder whose legacy should inspire further efforts to unite communities.
During the visit, the delegation thanked President Mahama for attending the seven‑day Islamic funeral and for his participation in the new Regent’s installation. The President commended the Regent’s commitment to continuing his father’s work and highlighted that the installation reflected the prevailing peace in Dagbon. He stressed that the new Regent’s responsibilities would require wisdom, patience, consultation and fairness.
Mahama reaffirmed the government’s respect for Dagbon’s customs and traditional institutions, assuring that traditional authorities would be allowed to perform their duties with dignity. He also promised that Dagbon would receive its fair share of development projects under his administration, stating, “As long as I remain President, Dagbon will receive its fair share of the development projects my government can undertake.”
What to watch: The President’s continued support for Dagbon’s development and the Regent’s efforts to maintain peace will be closely monitored by local communities and traditional leaders alike.
