On Tuesday, July 29, 2025, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and the Nigerian Senate issued statements addressing recent protests in Ghana where some Ghanaians called for the expulsion of Nigerians, alleging criminal behavior.
NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, strongly condemned the "blanket" generalization of Nigerians as criminals.
She emphasized that Nigerians are generally "good ambassadors" and that any individuals engaged in illicit activities should be identified and sanctioned. Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the close ties between Ghana and Nigeria, describing them as "Siamese twins" and brothers, urging them to continue living in peace in the spirit of ECOWAS and regional integration.
She advised Nigerians in Ghana to remain calm, not be provoked, and avoid violence, assuring them that Nigerian authorities are addressing the issue through diplomatic channels.
Dabiri-Erewa also cautioned against inciting words from both sides and urged Nigerians to disregard circulating videos claiming the destruction of Nigerian shops and properties, stating there is no evidence to support such claims. She stressed the importance of preventing any reprisal attacks.
Similarly, Senator Aniekan Bassey, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organizations and a member of the ECOWAS Parliament, condemned the protests as "deeply disturbing and contrary to the spirit of African brotherhood."
He called on both nations to uphold their long-standing friendship, mutual respect, and regional cooperation, emphasizing the role of Nigeria and Ghana as key ECOWAS members in promoting peace, unity, and integration as enshrined in the ECOWAS charter.
Senator Bassey urged calm among law-abiding Nigerians in Ghana, reiterating that diplomatic channels are being effectively explored to resolve the situation.