President John Mahama of Ghana has reiterated his nation’s dedication to upholding the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Protocols, particularly those facilitating the free movement of people and goods across the region. During a meeting at the Presidential Palace in Accra with a Nigerian delegation led by Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mahama emphasized Ghana’s commitment to fostering regional unity and rejected any descent into xenophobia. According to a statement from Magnus Eze, media aide to the Minister, Mahama sought to reassure Nigeria, a key regional partner, of Ghana’s resolve to maintain strong bilateral ties.
Mahama addressed recent concerns stemming from protests targeting Nigerian nationals in Ghana, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to be troubled by the demonstrations. He described Nigeria and Ghana as sibling nations bound by a shared history, emphasizing that nothing would be allowed to strain their relationship. The Ghanaian leader clarified that the tensions were sparked by the recirculation of a decade-old video created by a Nigerian resident in Ghana, which had stirred unrest. However, he noted that the situation was promptly addressed and contained. Mahama further assured the delegation that the protests involved fewer than 50 individuals and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Nigerian nationals, their properties, and their businesses in the country.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu, speaking on behalf of the Nigerian delegation, explained that their visit aimed to ease tensions following the viral video that had raised concerns among Nigerians. She highlighted the apprehension felt in Nigeria regarding the safety of its citizens and their assets in Ghana, underscoring the delegation’s mission to strengthen trust and cooperation between the two nations. Mahama’s assurances reflect Ghana’s determination to maintain harmony and protect the interests of Nigerians within its borders, reinforcing the deep-rooted ties between the two West African countries.
