The Upper East Region witnessed a landmark moment as the new Regional Passport Application Center was officially commissioned, a testament to Ghana’s ongoing journey toward administrative decentralization and inclusive development. Apexnewsgh reports
In his keynote address at the opening, Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Akamugre captured the significance of this achievement, reflecting both on the struggles of the past and the aspirations for the region’s future.
“Today marks a defining moment in our regional journey towards administrative decentralization and inclusive development,” Minister Akamugre told an audience of dignitaries, traditional leaders, and enthusiastic residents. “For far too long, residents of the Upper East Region have had to endure long and costly travels to access basic passport services. The opening of this passport office is not merely an inauguration of an office, but a symbol of hope, integrity, and the NDC government’s responsiveness to the needs of its citizens, regardless of geographical location.”
The new passport centre, the Minister stressed, is not just an expanded service; it is a strong statement of the government’s commitment to true decentralization, accessibility, and equitable national service delivery. “This facility, although temporary, its impact will have a permanent impact as it bridges the gap between the government and the citizens of Ghana in this region.” He extended deep gratitude to the President, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, and Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for their dedication and vision. “The region is indeed grateful, and we salute you for walking the talk.”
Akamugre reserved special praise for community involvement, particularly the Alagumgube Association. “A dedicated and spirited community-based organization, Alagumgube has played a very instrumental role in mobilizing public interest and supporting the renovation of this facility. Without them, we would not have gathered here in the first place.” He lauded the tireless efforts of founder Mr. Gabriel Agambila, the revered chiefs who serve as patrons, and the entire membership, urging others to emulate their spirit of partnership and commitment to the public good.
The Minister also commended the management of Ghana Commercial Bank for releasing their facility for the project and acknowledged the support of the Regional Coordinating Council, MMDCs, Members of Parliament, and individuals who contributed resources and expertise. “You have each written your name onto the development history of the region,” he declared.
While celebrating this milestone, Akamugre looked ahead to the next frontier for the region’s transformation: air transportation. “Permit me to use this moment to re-echo the collective aspiration of the people of Upper East Region that the next frontier for our region’s transformation lies in air transportation and connectivity. This request is a strategic necessity that will unlock the region’s vast economic, tourism, and trade potentials.”
He outlined the region’s growing population, strategic proximity to Burkina Faso and Togo, and the influx of international mining firms as reasons why an airport would have undeniable benefits. “The demand for the airport is strong, real, and the benefits are undeniable.
The NDC, as a social democratic party and government of the people, cannot have a better legacy in the region than to see to the full realization of this airport project. This will affirm His Excellency John Dramani Mahama’s reset agenda and the NDC vision of balanced regional development and integration.”
He revealed that just two weeks prior, he submitted the indenture for the proposed airport land to the Ghana Airport Company Limited in Accra, covering 4,218.43 acres. “Out of this, a two-kilometer runway has since been cleared to the satisfaction of the Ghana Airport Company Limited. I am humbly appealing to the Minister of Transport to prioritize the commencement of the construction of the Bolgatanga Airport as a crucial step towards realizing His Excellency John Dramani Mahama’s vision of a truly connected Ghana.”
Mr. Akamugre extended heartfelt appreciation to the Tindamas, the landowners, chiefs, elders, and the entire Sumburungu community for their generosity in releasing 4,218.43 acres of ancestral land—free of charge, for the airport project. “We recognize the cultural, economic, and spiritual value of land in our communities. For this selfless gesture, the people of Sumburungu have demonstrated leadership and a true spirit of development partnership. May this airport stand as a lasting symbol of your generosity, vision, and the enduring legacy of the Sumburungu as a community that boldly chose progress for the benefit of all.”
As the Upper East Region celebrates the opening of its Passport Application Centre, Minister Akamugre’s address served both as a reflection on how far the region has come and as a rallying call for the next chapter in regional transformation. The new centre stands as a beacon of access, hope, and partnership, while the vision of an airport promises to propel the region even further on its path toward balanced, inclusive, and sustainable development.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
