President Mahama Mourns the Loss of Business Icon Alhaji Asoma Banda
President John Dramani Mahama has paid his respects to the family of the late Alhaji Asoma Banda, a trailblazing figure in Ghana’s shipping and aviation industries, who passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025.
Mahama led a delegation of government officials to express his condolences to the family of the revered business icon.
News of Alhaji Banda’s passing was shared on social media by Nigerian businessman and close associate, Dele Momodu, who paid a heartfelt tribute to him on Instagram. “Such a privilege knowing this adorable couple, ALHAJI & EDWINA ASOMA-BANDA, in the last three decades… Today, the elephant has fallen… May ALLAH bless BAABA for keeping ALHAJI comfortable to the end. May ALLAH comfort the entire family, his wives, and children,” Momodu wrote.
Tributes have poured in for the business icon, with prominent businessman Sir Sam Jonah eulogizing Alhaji Banda as a visionary entrepreneur and national asset. “This morning, Ghana has lost a true patriot, a visionary entrepreneur, and a giant of industry,” Jonah stated.
He highlighted Alhaji Banda’s transformative impact on Ghana’s economy, particularly through Antrak Airlines, which revolutionized domestic air travel.
Jonah reflected on Alhaji Banda’s remarkable legacy, noting that he was a historian and mentor who generously shared insights on Ghana’s economic past and future.
“He never concealed his humble beginnings. Instead, he wore them as a badge of honor-proof that determination, hard work, and vision can elevate one from modest origins to the heights of success.” Jonah urged Ghanaians to celebrate Alhaji Banda’s legacy, emphasizing that his resilience and accomplishments should serve as an inspiration for generations to come. “As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, let us not only mourn his passing but celebrate his legacy. Infact Banda’s resilience, vision, and unshakable belief in African enterprise will continue to inspire”.