The Ghana Football Association today joined the rest of the world to wish Nelson Mandela, one of its biggest fans at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, best wishes as the global icon celebrates his 92nd birthday on Sunday.

Madiba (his clan name) became the first President of post-apartheid South Africa from 1994 to 1999, rallied enough support for the Black Stars during the recent World Cup as Ghana went on to reach the quarter-finals, the best achieved by the six representatives from the continent.

The Black Stars were hosted to a wonderful reception at the residence of the one of the world’s greatest statesmen, a day after their exit as players and officials enjoyed photo sessions with the former leader.

On Sunday, as personalities and organizations celebrated the life of Mandela, the GFA also paid tribute to the man on this very special occasion.

"We are very grateful to have had the opportunity to bring some cheer on the face of this great icon during our World Cup campaign in South Africa.

"His support for the Black Stars throughout the competition and his subsequent invitation to the team would never be forgotten by the Ghana Football Association.

"On this very special day, we at the Ghana Football Association and on behalf of all our partners congratulate and wish you - Nelson Mandela - the very best tidings of this occasion," an FA statement said.

“We cherish the moment we shared with you and wish we would have many more such moments and take inspiration from your great service to the entire continent and beyond.”

This year, Madiba’s birthday will be celebrated worldwide as ‘Nelson Mandela International Day’, an occasion endorsed by the United Nations to commemorate his “contribution to the culture of peace and freedom”. The Day will be observed annually every 18 July.