Ghana’s High Commissioner to the United States, Emmanuel Victor Smith, has called on Ghanaians at home and abroad to recommit themselves to building a nation that reflects the ideals of its founding leaders.

Speaking during a Thanksgiving Service to mark Ghana’s 69th Independence Anniversary at Agape Life Ministries on Sunday, March 8, 2026, he urged citizens to reflect on what they are leaving behind for future generations.

“Our founders handed us a nation. Today, history is asking us a simple question: what shall we hand over to the next generation?” he said.

The High Commissioner said the anniversary should not only be a moment of remembrance but also a call to continue the work envisioned by Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah.

“Let this anniversary renew our national covenant, not merely to remember the vision of President Nkrumah, but to continue the work of building the Ghana he dreamed of,” he stated.

According to him, the vision for the country must be one where opportunity is accessible to all and where public service defines patriotism.

“A Ghana where opportunity is created not inherited, where patriotism is measured by service, where leadership means sacrifice and where freedom delivers dignity to every citizen and every household,” he said.

Amb Victor Smith also used the occasion to acknowledge the role of the church in national development, noting that faith institutions have long helped guide the country’s moral direction.

“For 69 years, the church has been a moral compass for our nation, bringing guidance, correcting and sustaining hope,” he said.

He encouraged religious leaders to continue using the pulpit to shape national values and promote responsible citizenship.

“You must always remember that the pulpit is not only a place for spiritual exaltation, it is also a platform for national transformation because the church shapes conscience, moves character and inspires responsibility,” he said.

The High Commissioner further urged pastors and church leaders to promote integrity and patriotism among their congregations.

“As we celebrate this anniversary, I encourage our pastors, reverend ministers and church leaders to continue using the pulpit to preach integrity in public life, to teach discipline and productivity, to encourage patriotism and service, to reject corruption and moral compromise, and to inspire our youth to believe in Ghana,” he said.

The event also coincided with International Women’s Day, and Ambassador Victor Smith used the moment to call for stronger support for women and girls.

“And as we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us also commit ourselves to empowering women and girls, supporting their leadership and ensuring that their talents help drive the future of our nation,” he said.

“No nation rises to its full potential when half of its strength is limited.”

The service was organised under the leadership of Evans Glover, President of the Council of Ghanaian Pastors and Churches USA, and brought together members of the Ghanaian community to mark the anniversary with prayer and reflection on the country’s progress.