The Nigerian High Commission in Ghana has commemorated the nation’s 66 years of independence, with a commitment to deepen relations with Ghana.
The Nigerian High Commissioner to Ghana, Shehu Ilu Barde, who was speaking at the event last Thursday, said relations between the two countries dated back to the pre-independence era.
He outlined a strategic vision to expand cooperation across critical sectors such as increased trade and investment for economic growth.
Mr Barde also mentioned agriculture and infrastructure development, as well as tourism, as some of the sectors the two countries could build upon.
The High Commissioner expressed optimism that enhanced bilateral engagements would drive broader prosperity across West Africa.
Tribute
Reflecting on Nigeria's 66-year trajectory, Mr Barde paid tribute to the nation’s founding fathers whose leadership he said laid the groundwork for Nigeria's contemporary global standing, while describing the anniversary as a vital unifying moment for Nigerians worldwide.
On the domestic front, he commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration for ongoing national security reforms and efforts to combat crime of any kind.
The ambassador urged the Nigerian community in Ghana to live exemplary lives, reminding them that expatriates serve as vital ambassadors for Nigeria's values abroad.
Partnership
The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, who represented the government, recalled the shared and deep historical bonds and mutual aspirations between Ghana and Nigeria.
"The government of Ghana remains fully committed to strengthening and nurturing the existing bilateral relations between our two nations, particularly in the creative arts, tourism, economy and trade," he said.
The minister said Ghana looked forward to an upcoming session of the Nigeria-Ghana Permanent Joint Commission in Abuja to identify new areas of collaboration.
Referencing Nigeria's next general election slated for next year, Mr Haruna encouraged them to uphold democratic values by ensuring free, fair, and credible polls.
He prayed for sustained peace, stability, and prosperity for Nigeria.
