Tensions between Nigeria and Ghana have begun to ease after high-level bilateral talks were held in Accra this week, calming public outrage sparked by a wave of anti-Nigerian protests across parts of Ghana.
According to Business Insider Africa, the protests, which were ignited by viral videos on social media allegedly showing Nigerian nationals engaging in criminal acts, provoked widespread public concern and demands for deportations.
Demonstrators gathered in key locations such as Accra’s Obra Spot, brandishing placards with inflammatory slogans including “Nigerians Must Go,” “End Kidnapping,” and “End Ritual Murders.”
In response, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu deployed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu to Ghana as a special envoy to de-escalate the situation.
At a joint press conference with Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Ablakwa, Odumegwu-Ojukwu acknowledged the growing concerns but urged calm, dismissing reports of unrest during her visit.
“Contrary to online reports, there was no visible unrest upon our arrival,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu clarified, emphasising Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens while fostering diplomatic dialogue with Ghanaian authorities.
Minister Ablakwa echoed these sentiments, stressing Ghana’s obligation to protect all residents, irrespective of nationality.
Also Read: Ghana, Nigeria to Address Diplomatic Strain as ‘Nigeria Must Go’ Protests Stir Tensions
“The Ghanaian government will ensure that everyone in the country, citizens and non-citizens, is protected,” he said, while cautioning residents to avoid criminal behaviour or incitement to violence.
Beyond the recent protests, long-standing trade grievances continue to strain Nigeria-Ghana relations. At the heart of the controversy is the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Act 865 of 2013, which restricts non-citizens from engaging in certain small-scale businesses, such as petty trading and street vending—sectors where Nigerian migrants are increasingly active.
According to journalist Obibini Kojo Bansah, part of the Ghanaian frustration stems from the perception that Nigerian traders are violating these trade regulations.
He noted that local traders have repeatedly petitioned the government, and the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has even threatened nationwide protests if foreign encroachment is not curbed.
While Ghana has struggled to consistently enforce the GIPC Act, its intent mirrors restrictive trade policies recently introduced in Tanzania—policies that have stirred regional backlash, including threats of retaliation from Kenya.
Despite the volatile backdrop, the diplomatic dialogue appears to have defused immediate hostilities. Both countries issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to peaceful coexistence and mutual economic cooperation.
Still, analysts warn that unless comprehensive reforms and sustained engagement follow these talks, tensions rooted in nationalism and economic competition could resurface.
Image Credit: West Africa Democracy Radio
