The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has called on Ghanaians to embrace integrity, patriotism and environmental responsibility, saying the country's future depends not only on sound policies but also on the values and character of its citizens.

Speaking at the 2026 National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at Ola Senior High School in Ho on the theme, "Resetting Our Values to Build the Ghana We Want," Mr Gunu said Ghanaians must recommit themselves to righteousness, honesty, discipline and national unity to accelerate sustainable national development.

According to him, lasting national progress can only be achieved when citizens place the national interest above personal gain and uphold strong moral values in their daily lives.

Reflecting on the previous year's National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service, Mr Gunu said the event marked the beginning of a new chapter in the development of the Volta Region, adding that significant progress had been made over the past year.

"Last year, we had a very successful prayer and thanksgiving service that ushered us into a new chapter of the Volta Region's development, and we have achieved a lot since then. I believe your prayers have indeed been heard by Almighty God," he recounted.

The minister, however, expressed concern over the recent heavy rains that have caused severe flooding across parts of the Volta Region, affecting at least 10 districts and displacing hundreds of residents.

He conveyed the sympathies of President John Dramani Mahama and the government to families who have lost their homes, farms and other property as a result of the floods.

Describing climate change as a growing threat, Mr Gunu urged citizens to become responsible stewards of the environment by protecting natural resources and adopting environmentally responsible practices.

"It is unfortunate that this year's heavy rains have flooded several communities within the region. Climate change is real, and we must all play our part in protecting the environment," he said.

Despite the impact of the floods, the Minister expressed confidence that Ghana would recover through collective effort and resilience.

He stressed that moral renewal is essential to national development, saying every successful nation is built on the character of its people.

"Every great nation is built on the character of its people. Resetting our values means choosing integrity over corruption, service over selfishness, unity over division, and hard work over shortcuts. The Ghana we desire begins with the Ghanaian we choose to become."

Mr Gunu also reminded Christians that while prayer remains important for national healing, it must be accompanied by genuine repentance and a commitment to doing what is right.

"Healing our nation requires more than prayer. It requires a change of heart and a commitment to doing what is right," he noted.

He further urged Ghanaians to demonstrate patriotism through their actions by rejecting corruption, protecting public property, respecting the rule of law and serving as role models for future generations.

Mr Gunu expressed optimism that, with faith in God, unity of purpose and renewed national values, Ghana could build a just, peaceful and prosperous society where opportunities are accessible to all and sustainable development becomes a reality.