…as Nigeria, Ghana reaffirm strong ties 

The governments of Nigeria and Ghana have moved to dispel growing concerns sparked by viral videos suggesting animosity towards Nigerians living in Ghana, insisting that bilateral relations remain cordial and that no such incidents have occurred.

The joint reassurance came during a diplomatic visit by Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, who led a fact-finding delegation to Accra on the directive of President Bola Tinubu.

Addressing journalists at a joint press conference alongside Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized that there was no indication of hostility against Nigerians.

“The situation on ground is calm and peaceful. We interacted with Nigerian residents and community leaders here in Ghana, and there’s no cause for alarm”, she said.

She expressed appreciation to the Ghanaian government and particularly commended President John Dramani Mahama for his leadership in maintaining peace and regional diplomacy.

She also advocated for the reactivation of the Nigeria-Ghana Joint Commission, describing it as a vital platform to strengthen bilateral ties and prevent future diplomatic misunderstandings.

Ghana’s Foreign Minister also addressed the concerns, denying that any group protests or targeted aggression had occurred.

He noted that all law-abiding residents, regardless of nationality, are protected under Ghanaian law and urged the public to disregard misleading narratives spread on social media.

“We must be cautious about the kind of information we consume and share. The recent videos making the rounds are misleading and have the potential to unnecessarily damage the historical and cultural ties between our nations”, Ablakwa said.

The ministers recalled previous strains in Nigeria-Ghana relations, including the infamous “Ghana Must Go” saga of 1983, as reminders of the need for careful diplomacy and regional cooperation.

Both leaders stressed that Africa must learn from its past and work towards unity, peace, and mutual progress.

In addition to the press briefing, the Nigerian delegation held several closed-door meetings with diplomats, community leaders, and other key stakeholders.