Federal Government has expressed its gratitude to the Republic of Ghana for the reconstruction and formal handover of a property belonging to the Nigerian High Commission in Accra.
This significant development took place during a ceremony on Wednesday, following the demolition of the building in 2020 by Ghanaian authorities, an act that had been met with strong disapproval from the Nigerian government.
The property in question is a block of four-bedroom flats, which was razed during the period of diplomatic tension between the two countries.
The demolition had sparked widespread condemnation from the Nigerian government.
In response, high-level diplomatic discussions were initiated, leading to a promise by the Government of Ghana to rebuild the structure.
The newly reconstructed building was officially handed over by Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Mrs. Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, during the ceremony.
The Director of the Foreign Service Academy in Lagos, Ambassador Chimezie Ogu, represented Nigeria at the event and received the keys to the property on behalf of the Nigerian government.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the acting spokesperson, emphasized that Nigeria views the gesture as a positive step forward, highlighting it as a reflection of Ghana’s dedication to fostering stronger diplomatic relations with its West African neighbor.
The government of Nigeria described the handing over of the keys as a commendable and symbolic gesture that demonstrates Ghana’s commitment to upholding the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between the two nations.
“The handing over by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana, Her Excellency Mrs. Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, is seen as a commendable development and a symbol of Ghana’s commitment to strengthening the ties between both countries,” the statement read.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs applauds the laudable gesture and affirms that the reconstructed building embodies the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that defines the relationship between the Republic of Nigeria and the sister Nation, Ghana,” it added.
The federal government further reiterated its appreciation for the completion of the project and stressed the importance of continued collaboration between the two countries to build on their longstanding friendship.
