The Ashaiman Chief, Nii Annang Adzor
The Chief of Ashaiman, Nii Annang Adzor, has delivered a reflection on the nation’s progress, describing Ghana as a “pensioner with nothing to show” after decades of self-governance.
According to him, it doesn’t make sense for a pensioner to live in abject poverty with abundant natural resources at his disposal.
Industrialisation
Speaking during a community engagement, he challenged national leaders to revisit the industrialisation vision of Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, in order to address the country’s economic struggles and growing unemployment crisis.
Nii Annang Adzor expressed concern that Ghana, despite gaining independence before countries like Malaysia and China, has fallen far behind in development.
He noted that while these nations have built strong economies and infrastructures, Ghana continues to grapple with economic instability, weak industrialisation, and a lack of job opportunities for its growing population.
“Before Ghana can become like China, Malaysia, or South Africa, we need to return to the ideologies of industrialisation. We once had thriving factories like the Northern Region Tomatoes Factory, the Meat Factory, the Aboso Glass Factory, and many more, all initiated by Nkrumah. Where are they now? We are struggling to even control our currency and sustain our cocoa sector,” he stressed.
Youth population
The chief highlighted that the increasing youth population presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Without job creation, he warned, Ghana risks higher levels of social vices such as crime and prostitution.
He called on leaders to take decisive action by prioritising technical and vocational education (TVET) and fostering local manufacturing.
“Ghana must build its technical sector and establish manufacturing companies that can produce the daily necessities we rely on. This will serve as a foundation for economic independence. We need long-term infrastructure planning instead of short-term projects that require rebuilding every decade,” he noted.
Nii Annang Adzor also lamented the state of Ghana’s educational system, advocating for a return to the old curriculum where students acquired diverse technical skills before choosing a career path.
He pointed out that, in the past, individuals with basic education could secure jobs and contribute to the economy, whereas today, many graduates lack practical skills.
Job market
“The job market in Ghana is being dominated by foreigners because our youth are not being equipped with the necessary skills. From painting to electrical works and concrete design, Nigerians and other nationals are taking over. If we invest in skill-based education, our youth can take control of their own destinies,” he said.
On leadership, the Ashaiman chief stressed the need for political leaders to take responsibility and act in the interest of the people.
He urged the government to take bold steps in restoring Ghana’s lost industries and creating employment opportunities.
When asked whether there is hope for Ghana’s future, Nii Annang Adzor remained optimistic, stating that with the right leadership and commitment to development, Ghana can still reclaim its path to industrial and economic success.
He added that leaders must be proactive and serve the people well, saying, “Leadership isn’t an avenue for self-aggrandisement but an opportunity to better the lives of the citizenry.”