Ghana-Nigeria relations must be nurtured, not strained
In recent weeks, tensions have flared between Ghanaians and Nigerians living in Ghana, culminating in public protests.
Although these expressions of discontent have not escalated into violence, they have sparked unease among residents and prompted urgent diplomatic interventions from both governments.
Ghana’s Foreign Minister and Nigeria’s High Commissioner have issued calm reassurances, urging citizens of both countries to avoid hostility and embrace dialogue and mutual respect.
The Nigerian Foreign Minister added her voice, affirming that the matter is under active discussion at the presidential level, which is to calm growing fears.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Senate has also echoed these sentiments, affirming a united call for restraint and peaceful coexistence.
The Daily Graphic considers these overtures as commendable, as both governments have moved swiftly to de-escalate the tension.
However, these must not be seen as a one-off diplomatic challenge.
Rather, they should be treated as a sign that deeper, underlying issues remain unresolved, and if left unattended, could reignite in more dangerous forms.
To understand the complexities of the Ghana-Nigeria relationship, it is important to revisit history.
In 1969, Ghana implemented the Aliens Compliance Order, resulting in the mass expulsion of undocumented immigrants — predominantly Nigerians.
This policy, although legally grounded, left scars in bilateral relations, as families were uprooted and livelihoods destroyed.
Ironically, just a few years later, the tables turned.
With the onset of Nigeria’s oil boom and Ghana’s economic decline in the 1970s, a reverse migration ensued, with many Ghanaians seeking better fortunes in Nigeria.
But as if in a retaliatory move, Nigeria also deported over one million Ghanaians in 1982-1983.
These migratory patterns, however, reflect a deeper reality that the fortunes of West African nations are intertwined, and their citizens have historically moved across borders in search of opportunity.
Today, that dynamic continues.
A growing number of Nigerian youth are migrating to Ghana, drawn by relatively stable governance, a functioning educational system, and a more favourable environment for small businesses.
It is critical to recognise that this trend is not an invasion but a vote of confidence in Ghana’s systems and a testament to the shared aspirations of the youths of both countries.
Yet, migration brings about challenges.
Tensions often arise when local populations feel that resources are scarce or that newcomers are not integrating respectfully into society.
Unfortunately, isolated incidents involving individuals are sometimes mischaracterised as community-wide behaviour, feeding harmful stereotypes and xenophobia.
To prevent future eruptions of tension and build a more harmonious relationship between Ghanaians and Nigerians, the Daily Graphic believes that both governments must invest in proactive bilateral engagement beyond crisis diplomacy.
There should be standing cultural exchange forums, youth dialogue platforms, and regular inter-parliamentary consultations to foster understanding and continuous cooperation.
History must not be allowed to repeat itself through avoidable miscommunication.
Again, law enforcement agencies and immigration services of the respective countries must be trained to operate with professionalism and neutrality, ensuring that laws are upheld without targeting specific nationalities or communities.
Furthermore, community leaders, civil society organisations and the media in both countries must act responsibly.
Sensationalist headlines and inflammatory rhetoric can inflame divisions.
Instead, narratives that celebrate cross-cultural collaboration, economic contribution and shared values should be amplified.
In addition, citizens of both countries must take personal responsibility in upholding peace.
Nigerians in Ghana must strive to integrate respectfully into Ghanaian society, understanding local customs and contributing meaningfully to the economy and community life.
Similarly, Ghanaians must recognise the historical ties and economic contributions Nigerians have made and continue to make in Ghana.
More importantly, education and public sensitisation campaigns must be launched to counter xenophobic sentiments.
The ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement must be revisited and explained clearly to the public to underline the legality and mutual benefit of regional mobility.
We note that Ghana and Nigeria are the two largest economies in West Africa, and the bond between their peoples stretches beyond politics into music, business, religion and family.
It is this enduring connection that must guide our future.
Cooperation, not confrontation, is the way forward. Ghana and Nigeria must lead Africa not just in trade and diplomacy, but in modelling a new era of African unity, respect and shared prosperity.
