A message of unity and safety: John Mahama of Ghana reaffirms strong and unwavering ties with Nigeria, and support for ECOWAS

Former President of Ghana, John Mahama, has moved to reassure Nigerians living in Ghana of their safety, dismissing concerns of xenophobia and reaffirming Ghana’s enduring commitment to regional cooperation under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Mahama gave these assurances during a meeting at the Presidential Palace in Accra with a special delegation sent by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The envoy was led by Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.

In response to recent tensions sparked by the circulation of an old video clip allegedly depicting anti-Nigerian sentiment, Mahama emphasized that Ghana remains a safe and welcoming country for Nigerians. He clarified that the video, which went viral in Nigeria, was over a decade old and did not reflect the current reality in Ghana.

“The protest was not even up to 50 people,” Mahama noted. “We swiftly managed the situation, and I assure the Nigerian government that the lives, properties, and businesses of Nigerian nationals in Ghana are fully protected.”

He added that Nigeria and Ghana share deep historical ties and cultural bonds that cannot be undermined by isolated incidents or misinformation.

“Let your President know that he can sleep well. There is no place for xenophobia in Ghana,” Mahama said. “We are brothers with a common heritage, and our unity remains non-negotiable.”

Mahama also reiterated Ghana’s adherence to ECOWAS protocols, particularly those that ensure the free movement of people and goods across member states.

Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu, speaking earlier during the meeting, expressed gratitude for the warm reception by the Ghanaian authorities. She explained that the delegation’s visit aimed to calm tensions and address the growing apprehension among Nigerians following the viral video.

“Our mission here is to reassure Nigerians back home and ensure that our nationals in Ghana are safe,” she said. “We are also here to push for the establishment of a permanent Nigeria-Ghana Joint Commission to strengthen bilateral relations and address youth migration challenges.”

She noted that youth migration, driven by high unemployment rates among people under 45 in the subregion, requires collaborative solutions.

“We are encouraging our youth to remain in Nigeria, but if they must migrate, we want them to be exemplary ambassadors,” she added.

Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu also disclosed plans to meet with Nigerian communities in Ghana to encourage them to abide by local laws and contribute positively to their host country.

The delegation included top officials from Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Ambassador Regina Ocheni, Director of African Affairs; Ambassador Innocent Iwejuo, Director of the Minister’s Office; and Mr. Ajuluchukwu Eze, Special Assistant (Administration) to the Minister.

The meeting highlighted the importance of diplomacy, regional solidarity, and accurate information in preventing unnecessary tensions and promoting peace among West African nations.