President John Dramani Mahama has stated that Ghana is now safer than it was in the past, pointing to a decline in unresolved murder cases and improved safety on the country’s highways. He cited the experience of a bus driver who reportedly said that, unlike in the past when transport operators feared travelling at night due to highway robbery, drivers now set off as soon as their buses are full, even at 2 a.m., because of improved security on the roads.
President Mahama commended the Ghana Police Service, under the leadership of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno, for its performance. He also praised the efforts of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), the Police Intelligence Department and the Police Cyber Unit in maintaining law and order. “Our country is safer today than it was before,” President Mahama said, reiterating the bus driver’s account of the improved security situation and highlighting the reduction in unresolved murder cases.
He made the remarks yesterday at the inauguration of the Christian Tetteh Yohuno Ward Complex, an 85-bed facility at the Ghana Police Hospital in Cantonments, Accra. The President described the country’s current security arrangements as encouraging, adding that Ghana’s reputation as the safest country in West Africa had contributed to its appeal as a destination for visitors. The ceremony was attended by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak; IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno; and other senior officials of the Ghana Police Service.
Police accommodation
President Mahama emphasized the significance of the facility, stating that it was an important investment in the health and welfare of police personnel as well as in the hospital’s ability to serve the wider public. He noted that the inauguration of the facility was a tangible demonstration of the government’s commitment to supporting those who serve the nation and improving access to healthcare.
The President assured the Ghana Police Service of ongoing logistical support and announced that he had requested the Minister of Finance to allocate GH¢300 million in the 2027 Budget for the construction of 250 new apartments for police personnel. This initiative aims to alleviate congestion in some barracks.
Additionally, President Mahama mentioned that he had handed over 50 armoured vehicles to the police last December, with a second batch of 40 armoured vehicles expected to arrive in the coming weeks. He also indicated that the government was in the process of procuring more body armour for officers on operational duties.
Hospital expansion
On the Police Hospital expansion project, President John Dramani Mahama disclosed that Cabinet had terminated the 22-year-old contract due to prolonged disagreements with the contractor and escalating costs. He said he had directed the Minister of Finance to allocate approximately GH¢200 million in the 2027 Budget to facilitate the completion of the project.
According to the President, the expanded facility would provide an additional 106 beds, increasing the hospital’s total bed capacity to more than 300. The project would also feature a 12-bed intensive care unit (ICU), a new accident and emergency centre, 11 consulting rooms and four paediatric consulting rooms.
Other planned facilities include MRI and CT scan equipment, three general surgical theatres, an orthopaedic theatre, an endoscopy unit and a mortuary with a capacity of 222. “We are going to complete it ourselves and bring it into service before the end of next year,” President Mahama stated.
As part of efforts to strengthen emergency response and support healthcare delivery at the hospital, the President also donated two new ambulances to the Police Hospital to complement the operations of the newly inaugurated Christian Tetteh Yohuno Ward Complex.
Mental health support
The President disclosed that seven officers injured in the line of duty in Bunkprugu were on admission at the new block after being transported to Accra. He said all facilities for their care were available in the Christian Tetteh Yohuno Ward Complex. President Mahama stressed the need for mental health support for officers, saying repeated exposure to violence, tragedy and distress could take a lasting toll. He said counselling and treatment should be accessible without fear or stigma.
Maintenance
President Mahama urged the hospital management to uphold the highest standards of hygiene, patient safety, and clinical practice. He emphasized the importance of regularly servicing equipment, ensuring the availability of medicines, and maintaining consistent maintenance protocols. “The value of this facility will be measured by the quality of care it delivers and how well it is maintained over time,” he stated. The President also expressed gratitude to the doctors, nurses, pharmacists, technicians, and support staff, encouraging them to treat patients with dignity, compassion, and respect.
