Accra: Colonel (Rtd) Peter Nyarko Duodu, the President of the South East Ghana Union Mission (SEGUM) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, has urged Ghanaians to place the nation's interests above political affiliations and personal ambitions, to build a prosperous and united country. He emphasized that Ghana's progress hinges on patriotism, truthfulness, hard work, and collective commitment, underscoring that the country must come first before political parties, families, and individual interests.
According to Ghana News Agency, the President of SEGUM made the call during the climax of the Union's camp meeting at the Valley View University, which brought together over 2,400 youth, women, children, and the elderly for a week of worship, prayer, and spiritual renewal. The camp meeting, jointly organized by the Madina, Adenta, and Adenta East Districts of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, took place from Tuesday, July 28, to Sunday, August 2, 2026. It was held under the theme, 'Integrated for Mission: Grounded in the Bible and Focused on the Mission,' marking the first time the three districts held a joint camp meeting.
Col. (Rtd) Duodu expressed confidence that God would grant the prayers and aspirations of the attendees, adding that Ghana's current difficulties required both spiritual commitment and practical action from citizens. He urged Ghanaians to work together towards national development, noting that the country would prosper when citizens prioritize the common good above partisan interests.
He called on Christians, particularly those involved in politics, to demonstrate Christ-like values in their public service, urging them to put principle above party loyalty. The SEGUM President emphasized the need for honesty and accountability in national life, stating that wrongdoing must be confronted with love rather than ignored or defended for partisan reasons.
Col. (Rtd) Duodu also urged political actors and citizens to criticize wrongdoing constructively and avoid insults and divisive rhetoric, cautioning that excessive partisanship and attempts to cover up mistakes would hinder Ghana's development. He expressed optimism that despite uncertainties, Ghana could achieve a brighter future through unity, integrity, and faith in God, reminding citizens that the legacy they leave should be one of loyalty, commitment, and hard work.
Professor Daniel Ganu, Vice Chancellor of Valley View University, highlighted the church's critical role in the fight against corruption by promoting integrity and character formation. He noted that Ghana's high Christian population should be reflected in the values and conduct of its citizens, pointing out that the persistence of corruption suggested that the profession of faith has not been adequately translated into practice.
Prof. Ganu said corruption thrived when education focused solely on intellectual development at the expense of character and moral values. He mentioned that the institution adopted a holistic approach to education, combining academic excellence with character formation, faith, and integrity. He stressed the importance of training individuals to fear God and uphold moral principles, as a lack of integrity could lead to the abuse of positions for personal gain.
The Vice Chancellor expressed concern over the growing politicization of national issues, describing it as a significant threat to Ghana's development. He urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant against political manipulation and to distinguish between national interest and partisan loyalty. Prof. Ganu affirmed Valley View University's commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also possess the integrity and moral values necessary to contribute meaningfully to national development.