John Dramani Mahama signals openness to Russian support against terrorism

President John Dramani Mahama has declared Ghana's readiness to collaborate with any international partner, including Russia, to combat the growing threat of terrorism across West Africa. Speaking at the Financial Times Africa Summit in London on October 21, 2026, the President emphasized that the complexity of militant violence in the Sahel requires a unified global response. Mahama’s comments signal a pragmatic approach to regional security, stressing that Ghana remains open to support from various nations to ensure stability in the sub-region.

During his address, the President noted that the security challenges facing the Sahel are not confined to single borders and demand enhanced coordination between African nations and their international allies. By specifically naming Russia as a potential partner, Mahama highlighted a willingness to engage with diverse powers to bolster counterterrorism operations. He argued that the primary objective is the protection of lives and the preservation of regional peace, which necessitates leveraging all available resources and expertise.

The President further called for more robust international partnerships to improve the sharing of intelligence and technical capabilities. He stressed that while regional bodies like ECOWAS are central to security efforts, the magnitude of the insurgency in the Sahel often exceeds local capacities. Mahama indicated that Ghana’s foreign policy under his leadership remains focused on results-oriented security cooperation that respects national sovereignty while addressing the root causes of extremism.

This open stance on international support comes as West African nations seek new strategies to contain the southward spread of jihadi groups. As Ghana continues to navigate the geopolitical complexities of the region, Mahama’s invitation for global collaboration marks a proactive step in the administration’s security agenda. The President’s remarks at the London summit underscore the urgency of the situation and the government’s commitment to securing the country’s borders through strategic international alliances.