By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
In a move to further deepen the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Nigeria, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP), met with Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Okujwu, in Accra.
The high-level meeting focused on matters of mutual concern, regional cooperation, and the need to foster greater unity between the two West African nations. Addressing the media after the meeting, Hon. Ablakwa highlighted the deep historical bonds that exist between Ghana and Nigeria, referencing shared cultural, economic, and political ties.
He acknowledged past tensions between the two countries but stressed the importance of learning from such incidents to build a stronger, united Africa. “African countries must continue to work together in solidarity to ensure peace, create jobs, and drive economic transformation across the continent,” he said.
Hon. Ablakwa also underscored the significance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as a powerful platform for collaboration, development, and intra-African trade. He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability and called on both nationals and non-nationals living in the country to respect the law and contribute positively to national development.
Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Okujwu, in her remarks, praised Ghana for its continued leadership role in West Africa and on the continent. She acknowledged the critical influence both nations wield within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and emphasized the need for continued cooperation in addressing regional challenges.
Touching on a recent viral video that stirred tension between some citizens of the two countries, Ambassador Odumegwu-Okujwu strongly condemned the inflammatory remarks made in the footage. She urged Nigerian nationals to refrain from making comments that could incite division or conflict.
She commended the President of Ghana, traditional leaders, and the Ghanaian people for their hospitality and commitment to peace. The Nigerian diplomat also called for the reactivation of the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC), a bilateral framework designed to strengthen ties in areas such as trade, security, education, and cultural exchange.
Both ministers agreed on the importance of diplomacy, mutual respect, and dialogue in maintaining harmony and fostering sustainable development between Ghana and Nigeria.
The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to deepen collaboration and work together for the advancement of the two nations and the broader African continent.
