The president said Christmas presents an opportunity to reaffirm faith, hope and trust in God and to remember his unending love for mankind.

“The birth of Christ for me continues to be the story of hope and triumph in the midst of adversity and uncertainty."

President Akufo-Addo said he has laid a strong foundation for Ghana to take of in 2019, and accordingly urged Ghanaians to join hands with his government to build the progressive nation they have been desirous of.

He said he was looking forward to next year with a sense of hope and optimism because “our nation is certainly on the right path”.

“Next year promises to be a good one. I encourage you to join hands with my government in building a progressive and prosperous Ghana we all want.”

The president admitted that though Ghana is not at where it ought to be, the signs of a better and brighter tomorrow are very clear, stating the achievements of his government in the last 23 months have been appreciable.

“Our achievements in office so far, even though modest, have been appreciable and visible for all to see,” he touted.

His government, he said, has laid a strong foundation for future prosperity, worked hard to create a “much stronger economy” which has been demonstrated by reduced inflation and fiscal deficits.

Ghana, he said has become attractive destination for foreign direct investments, citing the decision by three global automobile companies to establish assembling plants in in the country from next year as a clear example.

These developments, Presiden Akufo-Addo noted, can increases the fortunes of the country and its people.

The president urged Ghanaians to let the Christmas season reinforce the belief that “we can make it if we put our shoulders to the wheel no matter our circumstances”.

He has meanwhile wished Ghanaians a merry Christmas and a happy new year, and advised against acts that could put their lives and that of their love ones in danger this yuletide.

“I wish you all a merry Christmas and a prosperous happy new year,” he said.