A video circulating on social media showing Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama walking through the busy streets of New York’s Times Square following his appearance at the Nasdaq Stock Market has attracted widespread attention online.
President Mahama rang the Nasdaq Closing Bell on September 23, 2026, at the Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square, New York. The high-profile ceremony was held as part of Ghana’s effort to strengthen economic ties with the United States and promote the country to international investors under the message, “Ghana Is Open for Business.”
Following the ceremony, viral footage appeared to show Mahama walking along the streets of Times Square surrounded by members of his security detail and entourage.
According to claims accompanying the viral video, security officials had reportedly preferred that the Ghanaian leader be transported by vehicle to his hotel. Mahama, however, was said to have opted to walk instead. That particular account has not been independently confirmed by the U.S. Secret Service or another official source.
After the Nasdaq closing bell ceremony, the U.S. Secret Service asked President Mahama to be driven to his hotel. He declined and insisted on walking to his hotel. I guess he enjoyed the walk! Must be tiring being President … like.. you can’t even step out for a walk that easy. pic.twitter.com/sB3uMh3gM3
— Akosua Journalist (@Iam_aJournalist) September 30, 2026
The footage nevertheless quickly gained attention, with social media users commenting on the unusual sight of a sitting president walking through one of New York City’s busiest tourist districts.
Mahama’s Nasdaq appearance came on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, where he was participating in diplomatic and economic engagements. His closing-bell appearance was followed by a U.S.-Ghana Presidential Roundtable involving business leaders and senior Ghanaian officials.
The Times Square walk has now added another highly discussed moment to Mahama’s New York visit, with the video continuing to generate reactions across social media.
