Ghana, Nigeria reaffirm strong bilateral ties after diplomatic tensions

By Kunle Sanni –

Ghana and Nigeria have reaffirmed their longstanding and cordial bilateral relations following recent diplomatic tensions triggered by inflammatory comments made by a Nigerian community leader residing in Ghana.

In a move to de-escalate tensions, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, visited Accra on a fact-finding and consultation mission on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The visit came amid public backlash over the controversial statements, which Ghanaian officials strongly condemned.

After holding talks, Ghanaian lawmaker and former Deputy Minister of Education, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed both countries remain committed to preserving their close historical ties.

“It is heartwarming and reassuring to know that the Nigerian government does not endorse any part of those condemnable pronouncements,” Ablakwa stated.

Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed appreciation for Ghana’s calm and measured response, thanking President John Mahama, the government, and the people for their maturity in managing the situation.

She also conveyed President Tinubu’s assurances that Nigeria remains committed to protecting the safety and rights of Ghanaians living within its borders.

Both parties emphasized the importance of diplomatic dialogue in resolving misunderstandings and pledged to strengthen cooperation across various sectors.

They concluded with a shared commitment to ensuring that recent tensions do not undermine the deep-rooted bond between the two leading West African nations.