The High Commissioner-designate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Shehu Ilu Barde, on Friday 24th July, 2026 presented copies of his Open Letters to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP), at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra.
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa noted that Ghana and Nigeria share a unique historical bond anchored on common values, regional solidarity, and a shared commitment to promoting peace, stability and economic prosperity within the ECOWAS sub-region and the African continent at large.
He further underscored the importance of strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries, particularly through the removal of trade barriers to facilitate the free movement of goods and services. He expressed optimism that both countries would work together to increase trade volumes well beyond the current level.
The Minister also highlighted the immense potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in transforming intra-African trade and called for closer collaboration between the two countries to maximise the opportunities presented by AfCFTA. He stressed that enhanced cross-border trade between the two largest economies in West Africa would not only benefit their respective peoples but also contribute significantly to Africa’s broader economic integration agenda.
In that regard, Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa encouraged the Government of Nigeria, together and other Member States of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to intensify efforts towards the successful implementation of the proposed ECOWAS single currency, the ECO, as its introduction would strengthen regional economic integration, facilitate cross-border transactions, reduce trade costs and further promote commerce within the sub-region.
On his part, H.E. Shehu Ilu Barde commended the enduring and fraternal relations between Ghana and Nigeria, describing the two countries as strategic partners whose cooperation continues to play a vital role in promoting peace, security, and development within the ECOWAS region.
He further reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations with Ghana across various sectors, including trade, investment, and regional cooperation. He pledged to work closely with the Government of Ghana to build on the existing strong foundations of cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Ghana.
