- The University for Development Studies (UDS) proudly celebrates His Majesty Ndan Ya-Naa Abukari Mahama II, Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to development.
- This recognition is not just an honor—it is a tribute to a monarch whose influence continues to shape the future of Northern Ghana.
Brief
The University for Development Studies (UDS) has proudly conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree on His Majesty Ndan Ya-Naa Abukari Mahama II, Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, in recognition of his exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to peace, and transformative contributions to education and development in Northern Ghana.
The historic ceremony took place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Multipurpose Auditorium on UDS’s Tamale Campus. It was attended by a distinguished gathering of traditional rulers, government officials, academics, and students, all united to celebrate a monarch whose vision has reshaped Dagbon and inspired progress across the region.
A Monarch of Peace and Progress
Since his enskinment in 2019, Ya-Naa Abukari Mahama II has been pivotal in restoring peace to Dagbon after decades of chieftaincy disputes. His leadership in implementing the peace roadmap, resolving long-standing conflicts, has garnered national praise. Under his rule, Dagbon has transformed from a conflict zone into a symbol of unity and stability.
The Vice-Chancellor of UDS, Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, lauded the Ya-Naa for “charting a new course for unity and socioeconomic development” and for steering the chieftaincy institution away from political manipulation. He highlighted the Ya-Naa’s role in promoting reconciliation, dialogue, and youth empowerment as pillars of sustainable peace.
Championing Education and Development
In addition to his peacebuilding efforts, the Ya-Naa is deeply committed to education, as demonstrated by his allocation of 500 acres for a new UDS campus in Yendi and the provision of facilities to launch academic programs. These actions highlight his belief in education as essential for development and empowering future generations.
His Majesty has led significant development projects, such as the new Gbewaa Palace, a symbol of Dagbon’s unity, cultural pride, and commitment to tradition and modernity.
A Partnership for the Future
An honorary doctorate was awarded to the Ya-Naa for his achievements and to strengthen the partnership between UDS and the Dagbon Kingdom in peacebuilding, education, and community development. The Ya-Naa, through an emissary, expressed his gratitude to UDS, dedicating the honor to the people of Dagbon and reaffirming his commitment to the progress of the Northern Region. Northern Regional Minister Ali Adolf John praised UDS for recognizing the Ya-Naa’s leadership, deeming the honor a well-deserved tribute to his service.
Northern Regional Minister Ali Adolf John commended UDS for recognizing the Ya-Naa’s visionary leadership, describing the accolade as “a well-deserved testament to his service to society.”
A Legacy of Inspiration
Ya-Naa Abukari Mahama II’s assumption of the title Ya-Naa Dr. Abukari Mahama II, marked by the donning of academic robes, represents a powerful union of tradition and academia, honoring a leader whose work inspires unity, progress, and hope.
