President John Mahama of Ghana has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) protocols, particularly emphasizing the free movement of people and goods within the region.
During a meeting with Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in Accra, President Mahama assured that there is no place for xenophobia in Ghana.
He emphasized that the safety and protection of Nigerians living in Ghana, including their lives, properties, and businesses, are guaranteed under Ghanaian law.
The meeting was convened following recent protests against Nigerian nationals in Ghana, which were triggered by the recirculation of an old video made by a Nigerian residing in Ghana over a decade ago.
President Mahama clarified that the protests involved fewer than 50 individuals and were swiftly managed by Ghanaian authorities.
He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria not to be unduly concerned, stating that Nigeria and Ghana share a long-standing history of cooperation and brotherhood.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed appreciation for the warm reception and conveyed the concerns of Nigerians regarding the safety of their fellow citizens in Ghana.
She also mentioned plans to establish a permanent Nigeria-Ghana Joint Commission to address bilateral issues, including youth migration and employment, in light of the region’s high youth unemployment rates.
President Mahama reiterated that Ghana remains committed to regional integration and peaceful coexistence, aligning with the principles of ECOWAS.
He assured that both Ghanaian and Nigerian citizens, as well as their properties, will continue to be protected, reinforcing the enduring ties between the two nations.