Ghana and Nigeria Strengthen Bilateral Ties as Nigerian High Commissioner-Designate Presents Open Letters to Ghanaian Foreign Minister

Accra: The High Commissioner-designate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Shehu Ilu Barde, presented copies of his Open Letters to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra. This event marked a renewed commitment to strengthening the relationship between the two West African nations. According to African Press Organization, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized the historical bond shared between Ghana and Nigeria, rooted in common values and regional solidarity. He highlighted the shared commitment to promoting peace, stability, and economic prosperity within the ECOWAS sub-region and the entire African continent. Ablakwa underscored the significance of enhancing economic cooperation by removing trade barriers to facilitate the free movement of goods and services. He expressed optimism about increasing trade volumes beyond current levels. The Minister also pointed out the transformative potential of the Africa n Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in boosting intra-African trade. He called for closer collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria to maximize the opportunities presented by AfCFTA. By enhancing cross-border trade between the two largest economies in West Africa, Ablakwa noted that both nations could significantly contribute to Africa's broader economic integration agenda. Furthermore, Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa encouraged Nigeria and other ECOWAS Member States to intensify efforts towards implementing the proposed ECOWAS single currency, the ECO. He highlighted that its introduction would strengthen regional economic integration, facilitate cross-border transactions, reduce trade costs, and promote commerce within the sub-region. In response, H.E. Shehu Ilu Barde praised the enduring and fraternal relations between Ghana and Nigeria, describing the two countries as strategic partners. He acknowledged their cooperation in promoting peace, security, and development within the ECOWAS region. Barde reaffirmed Nig eria's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Ghana across sectors such as trade, investment, and regional cooperation. He pledged to collaborate closely with the Ghanaian Government to build on the existing strong foundations for mutual benefit.