The Leader and Founder of the National People’s Party (PNP), Janet Asana Nabla, has paid tribute to the former presidential candidate of the People’s National Convention (PNC) and retired gynaecologist, Dr Edward Nasigrie Mahama, as he marks his 80th birthday on Tuesday, April 15.
In a press statement, Ms Nabla hailed Dr Mahama as a “distinguished statesman, a renowned gynaecologist, and a selfless patriot”, celebrating a life dedicated to the service of Ghana.
“Today, the People’s National Party (PNP) joins the entire nation in celebrating a living legend,” she stated. “Dr Mahama’s journey is a powerful testament to sacrifice, service, and unwavering love for Ghana.”
According to PNP, “Dr Mahama, who once practised medicine in Chicago earning $10,000 a month, made the life-changing decision to return to Ghana, accepting a lecturer position at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital for just $200 monthly.”
According to Ms Nabla, he did so not for recognition or reward, but out of deep compassion and a desire to save lives.
“Despite pressure from family and the disappointment of colleagues who later returned abroad, Dr Mahama stayed. He believed that Ghana needed him more,” she added.
As the flagbearer of the PNC in the 1996, 2000, 2006, 2008 and 2016 general elections, Dr Mahama championed a number of progressive social policies.
Ms Nabla credited him with advocating for the School Feeding Programme, inspired by his belief that no child should be forced to learn on an empty stomach.
“He often pointed out that even in the United States—where he could afford to feed his children—government still provided school meals. So why not in Ghana?”
She also noted his instrumental role in shaping the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), pushing for the introduction of the NHIS levy and proposing sustainable funding models—some of which were shared privately with key stakeholders, including a letter to then-NHIS CEO, Mr Sylvester Mensah.
“Many of the ideas he planted have since taken root and now serve as pillars in our national development framework,” Ms Nabla said.
Although Dr Mahama never ascended to the highest office in the land, his influence, she argued, is etched into Ghana’s healthcare and governance systems.
“His legacy lives on in every child who eats at school, every woman who receives maternal care, and every Ghanaian who accesses healthcare through NHIS.”
She said on behalf of the PNP and the nation at large her party extended warm wishes to Dr Mahama, expressing gratitude for a life well lived in service of others.
“Ghana, join us in celebrating a living legend—Dr Edward Nasigrie Mahama. May your life continue to inspire future leaders. Happy 80th birthday, Your Excellency.”
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