2025, The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Ali Adolf John, on Tuesday led the 80th Remembrance Day Commemoration in Tamale, laying a wreath on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama in honour of Ghanaian veterans who served in the First and Second World Wars.
The solemn ceremony brought together veterans, their families, government officials, traditional leaders, and members of the security services to pay tribute to the fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives in defence of peace and freedom.
In his address, Mr John said the day was not only one of remembrance but also a time for reflection on the cost of war and the enduring value of peace.
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“As we commemorate this day, let us continue to cherish peace and work towards building a world free from the horrors of war. The bravery and sacrifice of our gallant soldiers must inspire us to uphold justice, tolerance, and harmony,” he stated.
The ceremony featured the laying of wreaths by dignitaries, including:
- Air Commodore Nana Adu Gyemfi, Base Commander of the Air Force Base, Tamale, on behalf of the security services;
- Ex-Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Adama Ganda, Chairman of the Veterans Administration of Ghana (VAG) in the Northern Region, on behalf of veterans;
- The Linguist of Gulkpegu, representing the traditional council, and
- Madam Patricia Apambire, representing the widows of veterans.
A two-minute silence was observed at exactly the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marking the precise moment in 1918 when the Armistice Agreement ended hostilities in World War I.
Participants adorned the red remembrance poppy, a global emblem of sacrifice and hope, symbolising both the bloodshed of war and the collective yearning for peace.
Remembrance Day, also known as Armistice Day, traces its roots to November 11, 1918, when fighting ceased on the Western Front, ending four years of devastating conflict. The then Gold Coast, as part of the British Empire, contributed troops to the Allied Forces, many of whom paid the ultimate price on foreign battlefields.
Since then, the day has been observed annually in Ghana and across the Commonwealth to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served in global wars and peacekeeping missions.
Mr John urged Ghanaians, especially the youth, to uphold the legacy of the veterans by promoting peace, unity, and national service.
