Ghana and Nigeria Strengthen Ties Amidst Recent Tensions
Ghana and Nigeria have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations, despite recent tensions sparked by viral videos and social media posts that led to widespread protests in Ghana, calling for Nigerians to leave.
A Message of Peace and Cooperation
In a bid to mend fences and strengthen ties, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s special envoys, led by H.E. Bianca Odegwu-Okujwu, paid a fact-finding visit to Ghana. During their meeting with Ghanaian officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Nigerian envoys expressed their gratitude for the warm hospitality they received and commended the Ghanaian government’s efforts in maintaining peace and calm.
“We want to reiterate that Nigeria and Ghana have long been partners, and we have a special relationship,” H.E. Bianca Odegwu-Okujwu stated. “We are committed to ensuring the continued coexistence of Nigerians and Ghanaians in Ghana and to strengthening our pre-existing financial relations.”
Condemning Inflammatory Statements
The Ghanaian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, condemned the viral video that sparked the tensions, stating that it was “legitimately incensing” and had been condemned by the Nigerian side. The individual responsible for the video had apologized and demonstrated good faith, promising not to engage in such behavior again.
“We have agreed to deepen our community-to-community engagement and to work together to promote peace and understanding,” Minister Ablakwa emphasized. “We are conscious of our history and the need to manage our differences in a way that promotes unity and cooperation.”
A Shared Vision for West Africa
Both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). They have also agreed to resuscitate the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation, which will further strengthen their bilateral relations.
“We are committed to the cooperation across all spheres of development and will not allow the actions of a few individuals to taint a relationship of importance and a relationship that has thrived through the years,” H.E. Bianca Odegwu-Okujwu stated.
Looking to the Future
The visit marked a significant step towards healing the rift between the two nations. Both countries have expressed their commitment to peace, cooperation, and the protection of their citizens. As Minister Ablakwa noted, “We don’t want conflict, we don’t want war, and we don’t want violence. We want to work together to promote unity and cooperation.”
