Former President John Dramani Mahama was honored with the African Advancement Award for Exemplary Leadership at the 2024 African Heritage Awards Ceremony held in Lagos, Nigeria.

Organized by the Heritage Times of Nigeria, this event serves as a platform to celebrate influential African innovators, entrepreneurs, and organizations dedicated to propelling the continent towards greatness.

The 2024 ceremony, chaired by former Botswana President Dr. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, marked the second edition of the awards, following the inaugural event in Kigali, Rwanda in 2023.

In recognition of Mahama's outstanding leadership, the citation accompanying his award highlighted his strategic economic initiatives and substantial infrastructure projects implemented during his tenure. These initiatives aimed to address economic challenges and improve livelihoods for Ghanaians, including efforts to alleviate power shortages and stimulate job creation through agricultural expansion.

Mr Mahama's commitment to peace and democracy was lauded, particularly his graceful transfer of power to his successor following a democratic election.

The citation further praised Mr Mahama as a man of peace, deeply devoted to the welfare of his people.

Mr Mahama in appreciation thanked the team that supported him tirelessly during his presidency.

The award he said inspires him to strive to be an even better leader.

“Thank you to the Heritage Times for this recognition. It will have a pride of place in my office when I am re-elected as president,” he stated.

Among other notable recipients at the ceremony were the African Rising Movement, recognized for their contributions to social justice and advocacy, and Dr. Jayne Obioma Onwumere, CEO of the Property World Africa Network, honored for her exceptional work in women's emancipation and empowerment.