The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding bilateral relationship with Ghana while pledging to address concerns arising from a commercial dispute involving the ownership of the River Park Estate along Airport Road, Lugbe, Abuja.
The assurance was given by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed, during a meeting with the Acting High Commissioner of Ghana in Abuja, where both sides discussed recent developments in relations between the two countries.
The meeting, which took place yesterday, centred on the prolonged commercial dispute between a Ghanaian investor and a Nigerian business partner over the ownership of the River Park Estate.
The Acting High Commissioner thanked the Permanent Secretary for granting the delegation an audience at short notice and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to its longstanding diplomatic ties with Nigeria.
She said Ghana opted for diplomatic engagement to prevent the business dispute from escalating into an issue capable of generating unnecessary public tension between the two neighbouring countries.
The Acting High Commissioner also expressed concern over the safety and welfare of Ghanaian nationals linked to the investment, alleging that recent developments surrounding the disputed property had heightened tensions.
She appealed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate engagement with relevant Nigerian authorities to ensure the protection of lives, property and investments while legal proceedings continue.
Responding, Ambassador Ahmed reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to preserving the excellent bilateral relations between both countries, stressing that the ministry places high importance on the welfare of citizens of friendly nations residing in Nigeria.
He noted that although the matter appeared to be a commercial and legal dispute, the ministry would carefully examine the concerns raised by the Ghanaian delegation, prepare a report and make appropriate recommendations to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
He also assured the delegation that relevant government institutions would be engaged through established diplomatic channels where necessary.
The Permanent Secretary emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law and the protection of legitimate investments, while urging all parties involved to pursue peaceful dialogue and lawful mechanisms in resolving the dispute.
At the end of the meeting, both Nigeria and Ghana reaffirmed their commitment to sustained diplomatic engagement and cooperation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also pledged to continue working closely with the Ghana High Commission and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the matter is handled responsibly while preserving the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries.