The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has reassured Nigerians of their safety in Ghana following a viral video that stirred tensions between the two West African nations.
The diplomatic intervention came as Nigerian envoy H.E. Bianca Odegwu-Okujwu arrived in Accra on a fact-finding mission.
The Minister confirmed the Nigerian individual behind the inflammatory video had been reprimanded.
“He has apologized publicly and shown remorse; we must not allow such incidents to overshadow our brotherhood,” he added.
Mr. Ablakwa emphasised that the historical bonds between Ghana and Nigeria run deeper than any social media provocation, while recalling both nations’ shared leadership roles in regional bodies, including ECOWAS and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
He promoted peaceful coexistence and urged everyone to abide by the law and refrain from criminal activities.
With over 500,000 Ghanaians living in Nigeria, he stressed the importance of safeguarding all nationals.
“We must ensure the safety of Nigerians in Ghana, just as we expect protection for Ghanaians abroad,” he said.
He commended Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for sending envoys to Ghana, calling it a demonstration of Pan-African solidarity. “This is the spirit we need, dialogue, not division.”
The minister urged foreigners in Ghana to abide by local laws, warning that those who incite conflict will face legal consequences. “Ghana welcomes all who respect our nation. But unlawful behavior will not be tolerated,” he said.
On her part, H.E. Bianca Odegwu-Okujwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, expressed relief after finding Ghana peaceful and commended Ghanaian authorities for ensuring the safety of Nigerian nationals.
She noted the deep ties between both nations and recalled their joint leadership in ECOWAS and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“Ghana and Nigeria are pivotal to West Africa’s progress. We will not let isolated incidents undermine our bond,” she said.
Joyce Adwoa Animia Ocran, ISD
