Nigerian Minister of State, Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu Pays Diplomatic Visit to Ghanaian Counterpart

…Ease tensions, deepen economic ties

In a move seen as both timely and strategic, Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, paid a diplomatic courtesy visit to her Ghanaian counterpart —Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa—on Wednesday, July 30, 2025— following a recent wave of tension triggered by protesting Ghanian youths over alleged social crimes committed by foreign nationals in their country; including Nigerians.

The visit, which was at the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was part of a fact-finding and peace-restoration mission aimed at dousing rising diplomatic concerns and reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to the long-standing socio-economic relationship with Ghana.

At the heart of the visit was not only a diplomatic gesture, but also a royal presence, as Bianca brought a charming and calming touch to the tense atmosphere where the Igbo diaspora traditional institution in the Republic of Ghana was mischievously painted in a negative light by paid Ghanian bloggers who were sponsored by alleged Igbo businessmen and some Ghanian political leaders envious of the growing public profile of the leader of the Igbo community—HRM Eze Dr. Amb. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu (Ezeigbo Ghana).

Discussions between the Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister, Bianca Ojukwu, and her Ghanaian counterpart— Hon. Samuel Okudezeto —were robust , constructive, centering around peace, unity, mutual respect, bilateral economic relationship and the historical proximity of the two countries .

The Ghanaian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ablakwa, expressed appreciation for the Nigerian government’s prompt response to address the rising tensions and concerns over the safety of Nigerians in Ghana, even as President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed Ghana’s unwavering commitment to ECOWAS protocols, assuring member-states that there will be no room for xenophobia.

In the light of above, the Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, in return extended appreciation to the people and government of Ghana, including security agencies for the maturity and restraint they exercised in the face of what could have escalated into a diplomatic impasse.

Her presence and words helped bridge the emotional gap that had started forming between citizens on both sides, particularly as protesters had begun to voice their displeasure over the incident.

The visit, observers say, has significantly reduced the tension in the air, with many seeing it as a show of goodwill and shared royal responsibility.

Beyond addressing the incident, both countries used the moment to reaffirm their commitment to protecting each other’s nationals, strengthening diplomatic cooperation, and cherishing the enduring friendship that has defined Nigeria-Ghana ties for decades.

The visit by Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu , has not only restored calm but has also opened a renewed chapter of royal diplomacy — one that recognizes the cultural connections both nations share and the power of dialogue in healing divides.

After meeting with the foreign minister, Mr Abalakwa, Amb. Odumegwu-Ojukwu also met President Mahama.

Thereafter, held a town hall meeting with the Nigeria community in Ghana
At the meeting, she said the Eze Ndigbo title is purely ceremonial and means of bringing Igbos outside Igbo land together.

She equally added that it is a general phenomenon as Eze Igbo could be found in major countries of the world and any time they travel home, they are loyal and submissive to the substantive king of their communities
President Mahama during their meeting had explained that council of traditional rulers in Ghana are gazetted but any foreign king in Ghana soil is purely ceremonial noting that Ndigbo for 12 years had the ceremony without any problem until now.

In her words: Amb. Odumegwu-Ojukwu said: “I urge you all to come together and avoid rancour. Stop working at cross roads so that you can attain your goals here. she added.

It was earlier reported that two Nigerian legislators, Sen. Osita Izunaso, OFR, representing Imo West Senatorial District in the Senate , and Hon. Canice Chigozie Nwachukwu, representing Oru East|Orsu|Orlu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, paid a courtesy call on the Nigerian Ambassador to Ghana— H.E. Amb. Dayo Adeoye— reaffirming their supports for the promotion of Igbo culture and traditon in the diaspora, giving credence to the annual Igbo new yam festival which is part of Igbo anthropology, and rich cultural heritage.