President Mahama Says No Room For Xenophobia In Ghana

Mahama to Nigeria: “Ghana Is No Place for Hate”

Former Ghanaian President John Mahama has reassured Nigerians living in Ghana that they have nothing to fear. Speaking during a diplomatic visit from Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Mahama emphasized that xenophobia has no home in Ghana.

He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to regional unity under the ECOWAS framework—especially its principles that support the free movement of people and goods across West African borders.

Addressing recent tension sparked by a resurfaced video of anti-Nigerian sentiment, Mahama called it an old incident blown out of proportion. He clarified that the situation was quickly brought under control and stressed the importance of calm.

“Nigeria and Ghana share more than borders—we share history, culture, and a deep-rooted bond,” Mahama said, adding that the protection of Nigerians and their businesses in Ghana remains a priority.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu thanked Mahama for his warm reception and said her visit aimed to ease public concerns back in Nigeria. She emphasized the importance of setting up a permanent Nigeria-Ghana Joint Commission to help tackle youth-related migration challenges and improve bilateral cooperation.

“We’re encouraging our youth to stay and thrive at home, but if they must move, they should represent Nigeria with pride,” she said.

She also revealed plans to meet with Nigerians living in Ghana to encourage them to remain respectful of Ghanaian laws and culture.

Posting about the visit on her X (formerly Twitter) account, Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the discussions as fruitful. “President Mahama remains committed to fostering peaceful coexistence and ensuring that everyone—locals and immigrants alike—feel safe and protected,” she wrote.

She was joined on the diplomatic mission by top ministry officials, including Regina Ocheni, Innocent Iwejuo, and Ajuluchukwu Eze.