Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, has moved to calm tensions surrounding recent protests in Accra directed at Nigerians living in his country.
He told envoys for President Bola Tinubu that there is no cause for alarm and that Tinubu need not dwell on the matter.
Mahama received Nigeria’s special envoy, led by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu, at the Presidential Palace in Accra.
The Ghanaian leader stressed that both nations share deep cultural and historical bonds, reiterating his commitment to uphold ECOWAS rules that allow free movement of people and trade across West Africa.
He explained that protests were sparked by an aged video released online by a Nigerian living in Ghana years ago.
Though that clip stirred some unrest, officials swiftly addressed the issue.
He noted that fewer than 50 individuals took part in demonstrations, and assured that all Nigerians in Ghana can go about their daily lives safely.
Odumegwu‑Ojukwu described her mission as a fact‑finding effort. She met with Nigerians in Ghana to reassure them of their security and urged compliance with Ghanaian laws.
The delegation also discussed plans to establish a permanent Nigeria‑Ghana joint commission aimed at tackling youth migration and unemployment among people under 45.
Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Ablakwa, further assured that both nationals and non‑nationals, including those of Nigerian origin, are protected in Ghana.
He encouraged all residents to behave lawfully and cautioned against actions that could strain relations.
While concerns in Nigeria grew over viral content and anti‑Nigerian rhetoric abroad, both governments have engaged closely to prevent escalation.
Through ongoing communication and proposed collaborations, they seek to maintain harmony and strengthen ties between the two countries.