Ghana and Nigeria have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic cooperation by removing trade barriers and strengthening cross-border commerce to maximise the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The renewed commitment was announced by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, when he received the letters of credence from Nigeria’s High Commissioner-designate to Ghana, His Excellency Shehu ILU Barde.
Mr. Ablakwa said both countries had agreed to intensify efforts to facilitate trade and increase bilateral trade volumes beyond the current 20 per cent, underscoring the importance of closer economic integration within West Africa.
He noted that stronger collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria would not only benefit businesses in both countries but also advance the objectives of the AfCFTA by promoting the free movement of goods and services across the continent.
The Foreign Affairs Minister also urged the Nigerian government and other member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to build confidence in the proposed ECO single currency initiative.
According to him, the successful implementation of the regional currency would simplify cross-border transactions, reduce the cost of doing business, and further accelerate trade and investment within the subregion.
Beyond trade, Mr. Ablakwa raised concerns over reports that properties belonging to Ghanaian business mogul Sir Sam Jonah, particularly Mobus Properties in Nigeria, had allegedly come under attack.
He appealed to the Nigerian High Commissioner-designate to investigate the matter and ensure that the concerns surrounding the properties are addressed through the appropriate legal and diplomatic channels.
In response, His Excellency Shehu ILU Barde expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Ghana for the warm reception accorded him and praised the long-standing friendship and cooperation between Ghana and Nigeria.
The Nigerian envoy reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and assured the Foreign Affairs Minister that he would take up the concerns regarding Sir Sam Jonah’s Mobus Properties and investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged attacks.
The presentation of letters of credence formally marks the commencement of the High Commissioner-designate’s diplomatic mission in Ghana and is expected to usher in a new phase of stronger political, economic and trade cooperation between the two West African neighbours.
Story By: Eric Boateng
