The Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs portfolio, Minister-designate Mahama Ayariga has characterized former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s National Cathedral project as a worthwhile concept marred by poor execution.
Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee during his vetting on Thursday August 27, 2025, the Bawku Central Member of Parliament clarified that he supports the fundamental idea of establishing a national place of worship for Ghanaian Christians,.
He acknowledged the central role religion plays in the daily lives of citizens.
However, Ayariga raised significant concerns regarding the project’s implementation, singling out the selection of its location as a primary misstep.
“I believe that Ghanaians are deeply religious even though constitutionally, we are regarded as a secular state. I believe that having cathedrals, church buildings, mosques and other worshipping centres are great and exciting things that enable the practice of religions.
“And so in my opinion, I don’t think there is anything wrong with having a national cathedral for the Christians of the country. And if you are talking about the National Cathedral that Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo initiated when he was president, I don’t see anything wrong with it. I think it was a good idea that was badly executed. I personally had issues with the location.”
