Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has encouraged newly sworn-in Ghanaian citizens to embrace their nationality with pride and responsibility, stressing that citizenship is not only a symbol of belonging but also a call to service.

The vice president delivered the message when she attended a swearing-in ceremony for new Ghanaian citizens who took the Oath of Allegiance earlier in the evening.

According to her, the ceremony was organised by the Diaspora Affairs Office at the Presidency, overseen by Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD), in partnership with the Ministry of the Interior led by Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak.

Prof Opoku-Agyemang noted that the event reflects Ghana’s recognition of the diaspora as the country’s “17th Region” and represents an important step toward strengthening ties between Ghana and Africans around the world.

She said Ghana remains a home for the global African family and expressed pleasure in welcoming the new citizens.

The vice president also reflected on the painful legacy of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, describing it as one of humanity’s greatest injustices. She pointed to historic sites such as Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, whose dungeons stand as enduring reminders of that period.

However, she said the ceremony symbolises reconciliation, reconnection and healing.

Prof Opoku-Agyemang added that the moment reflects the vision of Kwame Nkrumah, who believed in a united Africa.

She commended the contributions of the African diaspora to Ghana’s development and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening diaspora engagement through comprehensive institutional frameworks.

According to her, the goal is to build a Ghana where Africans everywhere can reconnect with their roots and contribute meaningfully to national and continental progress.

As the new citizens begin this chapter, the vice president urged them to carry their Ghanaian nationality with pride while recognising the responsibilities that come with it.