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Mr. Steven Nhyira Odarteifio, airport name change petitioner has welcomed the government’s decision to rename Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport, describing the move as historic and deeply symbolic.
In a press statement issued on February 24, 2026, Mr. Odarteifio, who led a petition advocating the name change, expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and the Government of Ghana for what he called a bold and principled decision.
According to him, the decision, announced on February 23, the eve of the 60th anniversary of the overthrow of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah is not merely about a name but about national identity and historical reflection. He noted that while development remains critical, matters of national symbolism and moral direction are equally important.
Mr. Odarteifio revealed that on January 20, 2026, he led a petition calling for the airport’s name to be reverted to Accra International Airport. He explained that the campaign was intended to serve as a reminder that nation-building involves both material progress and moral consciousness.
He thanked the Ministry of Transport and all relevant institutions expected to oversee the transition, including the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), security agencies, airlines and other stakeholders.
The petitioner also acknowledged the role of media houses, civil society groups and prominent individuals who contributed to the public discourse on the matter over the years. He said the decision reflects a maturing democracy capable of listening to its citizens and acting decisively.
Mr. Odarteifio concluded by urging Ghanaians to remain focused on development priorities such as job creation, education, health, food security and industrial growth, while upholding the nation’s conscience and historical values.
Find press release below
Yaw Boagyan
Rafiq Adam
