Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwahas directed the cancellation of a planned surprise welcome organised by staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ahead of his return to Ghana.

In a public statement, Ablakwa disclosed that he had become aware of arrangements by ministry staff to receive him at the airport in celebration of what officials described as a significant national achievement.

According to him, checks with management confirmed that such receptions are part of a long-standing tradition within the ministry to mark major accomplishments and moments of national pride.

However, the minister said he had instructed that the planned welcome be called off immediately, emphasising that the achievement should not be personalised.

“I have expressed my appreciation to management for their thoughtful gesture and instructed that all such plans to offer me a surprise welcome at the airport be cancelled immediately,” he stated.

Ablakwa added that he would have opposed the idea had he been consulted beforehand, stressing that the success being celebrated was a collective national effort rather than an individual milestone.

“This is not a personal victory, and besides, there is more work ahead of us,” he noted.

The minister commended staff of the ministry for their dedication and professionalism, describing them as dynamic and talented, while urging continued focus on advancing Ghana’s interests on the global stage.

He also expressed optimism about Ghana’s international standing under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, calling for sustained commitment to national progress.

The directive effectively halts preparations for the reception, reinforcing the minister’s stance on modesty and collective responsibility in public service.