Ayariga open to reviving National Cathedral project, pledges funding push

Ghana’s Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, expressed his willingness to revive the National Cathedral project once Parliament approves it. Speaking before Parliament's Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, 2026, Ayariga pledged to push for funding to construct the National Cathedral if it receives support from the Christian community and President John Dramani Mahama.

Although he had reservations about the previous administration's implementation, Ayariga affirmed his support for the project's idea. He raised concerns about the selected location for the cathedral, stating that any future decision should involve consultations with key stakeholders. If appointed, Ayariga promised to engage the Christian community's leadership and President Mahama to determine their stance on the project before deciding on its construction.

Ghana's rich religious heritage, with numerous churches, mosques, and other religious institutions, reinforced Ayariga's belief in the significance of places of worship in national life. The completion of a forensic audit report on the project's finances, commissioned due to financial irregularities identified by Deloitte and Touche, will also influence Ayariga's decision-making process.