Accra: The High Commissioner-designate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Shehu Ilu Barde, on Friday, 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 marks a significant step in reinforcing the relationship between the two nations.
According to African Press Organization, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized the unique historical bond 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 broader African continent. He stressed the importance of removing trade barriers to facilitate the free movement of goods and services, expressing optimism about increasing trade volumes between the two countries.
The Minister also discussed the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in transforming intra-African trade, urging closer collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria to tap into the opportunities presented by AfCFTA. He emphasized that enhanced cross-border trade between these two major West African economies would benefit their peoples and contribute significantly to Africa’s broader economic integration agenda.
Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa encouraged Nigeria, along with other ECOWAS Member States, to intensify efforts towards implementing the proposed ECOWAS single currency, the ECO. He noted that the introduction of the ECO would strengthen regional economic integration, facilitate cross-border transactions, reduce trade costs, and further promote commerce within the sub-region.
H.E. Shehu Ilu Barde acknowledged the enduring and fraternal relations between Ghana and Nigeria, describing them as strategic partners in promoting peace, security, and development within the ECOWAS region. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Ghana across sectors such as trade, investment, and regional cooperation. He pledged to work closely with the Ghanaian government to build on existing cooperation foundations for the mutual benefit of both countries.