President John Dramani Mahama recently welcomed Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang back to Ghana following her medical treatment abroad, an event marking national relief and, according to Mahama, disappointing those who wished her ill. The return of Vice President Opoku-Agyemang signals a moment of national unity and a renewed focus on healthcare infrastructure.
This account details her arrival, President Mahama’s address at Kotoka International Airport, and the implications for Ghana’s healthcare system. It will explore the Vice President’s health journey, the reactions of key political figures, and future healthcare development. The Vice President Opoku-Agyemang recovery underscores the importance of robust public health and infrastructure.
The ceremony at Kotoka International Airport was attended by government officials, family members, and clergy, all there to welcome Vice President Opoku-Agyemang back to Ghana. President Mahama described the day as “a special day” for the nation. He noted, “It has been a trying time for everybody, and a lot of prayers were said for your safe return. And so today is a special day that you have stepped back in the country, on the land of Ghana, looking younger, looking cheerful.”
The Vice President’s health journey began on March 28, 2025. She initially received treatment at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) before seeking further treatment abroad. Her absence led to public concern and speculation. Upon her return, she expressed profound gratitude to Ghanaians for their prayers and goodwill during her recovery.
President Mahama addressed the nation and, subtly, his political rivals, stating that those who wished harm upon the Vice President were undoubtedly disappointed by her recovery. “The prophets who arose after your illness will be happy that you came back, the principalities too, who were wishing the worst, will be very disappointed,” Mahama remarked. He also lightheartedly addressed the controversy surrounding his brief travel abroad during her absence, saying, “Even travelling out of the country was difficult. They threatened to impeach me for going to Togo while you were away. So I’m the most excited to have you back.”
Mahama also acknowledged UGMC’s vital role in providing initial care to Vice President Opoku-Agyemang. However, he noted the hospital’s limitations in handling complex conditions due to its incomplete state. “We built a quintessential hospital, the UGMC, but it’s still not at the stage where they can handle some of these cases. It’s a call to duty that we should implement it the way Professor Mills had intended it to be, so that in future, emergencies like this can be handled locally,” he stated.
This led to a broader call to action for healthcare development in Ghana. Mahama emphasized the need to fully implement the UGMC project as Professor Mills envisioned, to enhance the nation’s ability to handle future medical emergencies locally and improve overall healthcare resilience.
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang expressed deep gratitude to Ghanaians, the doctors who cared for her, President Mahama, and Ibrahim Mahama for their unwavering support during her recovery. In a brief address, she thanked everyone for their prayers and support, which she said greatly contributed to her improved health.
The return of Vice President Opoku-Agyemang, as President Mahama articulated, signifies more than just a personal recovery; it’s a testament to national resilience and unity following a trying period. Her journey underscores the critical need for continued investment in Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that future emergencies can be managed effectively within the country. This event serves as a reminder of the collective goodwill and the importance of accessible, high-quality healthcare for all Ghanaians. The Vice President Opoku-Agyemang recovery is a celebrated moment for Ghana.
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