The Coordinating Director of the Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly in the Greater Accra Region, Vera Akuffo-Mante, has urged Ghanaians to renew their spirit of patriotism and work collectively towards a prosperous nation.

Delivering an address on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at a parade of cadet corps from some public and private basic and second cycle schools, teachers and security agencies at the Saleria Cluster of Schools Park at Odorkor to mark the 68th Independence Day yesterday, Mrs Akuffo-Mante stressed that the country’s destiny lay in the hands of its citizens, and collective efforts could transform the nation into a land of prosperity, justice, and opportunity for all.

"On this independence day, let us commit to a renewed spirit of patriotism. Let us reflect on our past, review our present, and reset for a greater future," she said.

Mrs Akuffo-Mante used the occasion to remind the citizenry that the independence celebration was not just a historical event, but a continuous process that required the active participation of all citizens.

"We cannot afford to be complacent. We cannot wait for others to bring change — we must be the change ourselves," she said.

Reset

Mrs Akuffo-Mante also called on Ghanaians to reset their cause and work towards a brighter future.

“To reset Ghana, we must embrace a culture of hard work and discipline," she said, adding that “Leadership is about service, and we must support leaders who prioritise national development over personal gains," She said.

Mrs Akuffo-Mante also stressed the importance of empowering the youth and investing in their education, as well as promoting unity and peace among all citizens.

She also stressed the need for the citizenry to take responsibility for sanitation and waste management to ensure a cleaner and greener country.

“We must be citizen vigilantes and report people who dispose of refuse illegally.

Dumping of refuse by the roadside or into drains during rainfall is criminal, we need to change,” she said.

The Ablekuma North Municipal Director of Education, Ebenezer Perry Ofori, for his part urged citizens to reflect on Ghana's past, review its present, and reset for a brighter future as the country celebrates its 68th Independence Day.

He encouraged citizens to engage in meaningful conversations about their roles in shaping the country's future, both individually and collectively.

This year's independence day celebration had the theme, "Reflect, Review, and Reset."