Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Mahama Ayariga visited the National Chief Imam’s home in Accra to seek blessings and prayers after assuming his new portfolio. He praised Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu as Ghana’s strongest symbol of interfaith harmony, urging Muslims and other citizens to follow his example of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
During the courtesy call, the minister highlighted the Chief Imam’s support, noting that delegations had been sent to back him during his parliamentary vetting and swearing‑in. Ayariga said his new role, which covers 261 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, chieftaincy matters, religious affairs and sanitation, carries enormous responsibilities.
He said he began his engagement with key stakeholders by visiting the Imam to seek spiritual guidance. “I have come this morning to seek his blessings and his prayers so that I will be able to stand up to the challenge and perform the task entrusted to me by His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama,” he added.
The minister conveyed President Mahama’s appreciation for the Imam’s continued prayers, guidance and support. He stressed that the decision to entrust him with religious affairs reflected the government’s commitment to religious harmony and the welfare of all faith communities.
Drawing on Islamic teachings, Ayariga urged Muslims to learn not only from religious texts but also from leaders’ conduct. He described the National Chief Imam as a quintessential example of a good Muslim whose life and leadership should inspire others to promote peace, tolerance and unity.
Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu offered prayers for the minister, asking Allah to grant him strength, wisdom and good health to execute his new responsibilities. He acknowledged the enormity of the task and prayed that God would help the minister overcome it.
The Imam reiterated that national development cannot be achieved without peace and harmony, and he pledged to continue praying for Ghana’s security and for global peace.
Ayariga expressed confidence that Ghana would continue to enjoy peaceful relations among its diverse religious and cultural communities if citizens embraced the values championed by the National Chief Imam.
