Ms Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, has handed over the reconstructed Nigerian High Commission building in Accra to Nigeria.
Mr Chimeze Ogu, the Director of Foreign Service Academy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, received the building on the behalf of Mr Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria.
The Government of Ghana undertook the reconstruction of the Nigerian High Commission building, which is located on the Julius Nyerere Street at Osu, Accra, following its demolition under the cover of the night by some individuals on June 20, 2020.
Ms Ayorkor Botchwey in her address at the handing over ceremony said the property represented much more than its physical structure and that it stood as a testament to the enduring relationship between Ghana and Nigeria, built on shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to addressing challenges with unity and resilience.
“Let me also take this opportunity to express, on behalf of the Government of Ghana, our sincerest apologies for the regrettable incident that led to the initial demolition of this building,” she stated.
“The actions of a few individuals were deeply unfortunate and do not reflect the values, character, or commitment of the Ghanaian people to peace, rule of law, and respect for our international obligations.
“Today’s ceremony marks an important milestone, highlighting the solidarity that has been tested yet remains unshaken between our two nations.”
Ms Ayorkor Botchwey noted that the swift reconstruction of this property following the incident demonstrated the Government of Ghana’s resolve to honor its international responsibilities and provide a safe and welcoming environment for all diplomatic missions.
She said the relationship between Ghana and Nigeria transcends diplomacy; adding that it was a partnership steeped in history, culture, and shared aspirations.
She said under the visionary leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of Ghana and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, their two nations continue to strengthen bonds through regional cooperation within ECOWAS and the African Union.
“Together, we strive to uphold the ideals of African unity, peace, and economic integration, principles that guide our shared journey,” she said.
Ms Ayorkor Botchwey said the handing over of the reconstructed property signifies Ghana’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the dignity of diplomatic missions and recognizing Nigeria’s critical role in our region.
She said it was also a reminder of their shared mission to advance peace, development, and justice not just in West Africa but across the continent.
“As we stand together in solidarity, let us continue to foster this spirit of unity.”
Ms Ayorkor Botchwey used the opportunity to advise all diplomatic missions in Ghana to ensure that had land properties to ensure that everything was in place.
Mr Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, in a statement read on his behalf by Mr Chimeze Ogu, the Director of Foreign Service Academy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, congratulated Ms Ayorkor Botchwey on her election as the first African Woman and the second African national to hold the prestigious office of the Secretary General of the Commonwealth.
Mr Tuggar, who lauded Ayorkor Botchwey for making Africa proud, said she indeed, earned the position by dint of hard work and unblemished years of selfless service to Ghana, Africa, and the world at large.
Touching on the reconstructed Nigeria High Commission building, Mr Tuggar said the reconstructed building represents more than just a physical structure; saying “it embodies the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that defines our relationship”.
“This explains why the Nigeria High Commission has remained silent on compensation for the huge financial loss it incurred due to the demolished building.”
Mr Tuggar said: “As we receive this reconstructed building, we re-affirm our commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties, enhancing economic cooperation and mutual understanding between our two countries”.
“To the government and people of Ghana, we express our sincere gratitude for this gesture. Your actions demonstrate the value you place on our relationship.”
In attendance at the event were Mr Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, a Deputy Minister Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration; Mr Charles Abani, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Ghana; Mr Ramses J. Cleland, Chief Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional; and Moses Ifedayo Adeoye, Charge D’Affairs of the Nigerian High Commission in Accra.
