President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaians to speak more optimistically about the country, warning that negative talk holds back national progress and dishonours the sacrifices of those who came before.

He made the comments while fellowshipping at the Ringway Gospel Centre of Assemblies of God Church on Sunday, August 2.

Speaking to the congregation, the President said citizens have a personal responsibility to complement government policies and efforts, describing it as a necessary partnership rather than something to be left to the State alone. 

He lamented a growing trend of pessimism among Ghanaians.

"Our forebears rose because they believed their nation would become great. In many of our societies, people give up and say Ghana will never change. We can never become great," he said.

President Mahama said every Ghanaian has a role to play in nation-building by upholding values that strengthen society and serve the common good. 

He said building a prosperous nation demands hard work, integrity, and a collective stand against corruption.

"We must work hard. We must tell the truth. We must be honest. We must reject corruption. We must look after the most vulnerable in our society. And we must have faith in serving the common good," he said.