President of the Ga-Adangbe Association, Nii Ayikoi Otoo, has urged the government to consider renaming Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Accra after a prominent figure from the Ga community, arguing that such a change would honour local heritage and identity. This call for a name change reflects ongoing public and political discussion about the airport’s future name.
Speaking on the matter, Ayikoi Otoo said that naming Ghana’s largest airport after a notable Ga icon could strengthen recognition of the nation’s cultural roots and celebrate contributions from indigenous leaders. He stressed the importance of ensuring national symbols reflect the diversity and history of Ghana’s people, especially in a place as internationally symbolic as the airport.
His comments come amid broader debate about the future name of the airport. The government has announced plans to rename Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport, with a bill expected to be presented to Parliament to formalise the change. The move has generated mixed reactions from the public and various interest groups, with some supporting the idea of a neutral city-based name and others pushing for recognition of notable figures in Ghanaian history.
Supporters of Ayikoi Otoo’s proposal say that naming national infrastructure after distinguished citizens can help preserve heritage and inspire pride among communities. They argue that as Ghana’s main gateway to the world, the airport should reflect more than just functional identity but also cultural significance. Critics meanwhile argue that international landmarks like airports are best named in ways that are easy to recognise globally, such as by city name.
The discussion reflects a wider conversation in Ghana about how national landmarks should be named and whose legacies should be highlighted. As the debate continues, public opinion remains divided on whether the airport should bear the name of a cultural icon or remain focused on geographic clarity and international recognition
