Nigeria’s Foreign Minister has paid a diplomatic visit to the Ga-Dangme State Overlord, Nuumo Gborbu Wulomo-Shitse, as part of efforts to deepen historical relations and address recent diplomatic concerns. The meeting was held in Nungua and included Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Moses Ifedayo Adeoye, along with eight senior officials.
The visit focused on enhancing diplomatic, cultural, and socio-economic cooperation between Ghana and Nigeria—two nations with longstanding ties.
Honouring Shared History
Reverend Dr. Daniel Gyasi-Ankrah, Director of Administration at the Office of the Gborbu Wulomo-Shitse, delivered remarks on behalf of the Ga-Dangme Overlord. He traced the ancestral roots of the Ga-Dangme people, noting their historic migration from Bene (Benin) in Nigeria. He highlighted strong cultural and historical bonds between the Ga-Dangme and various Nigerian ethnic groups, especially the Yoruba.
Dr. Gyasi-Ankrah described the Nigerian delegation’s visit as both symbolic and timely, especially in light of recent tensions.
Clarifying Misinformation
Nigeria’s Foreign Minister addressed a recent viral video involving an individual claiming to establish an “Igbo kingdom” in Ghana. Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu clarified that the title Eze Igbo is traditionally ceremonial and commonly held by respected leaders within the Igbo diaspora. She denounced the misleading video, explaining that it misrepresented a 2013 comment by an individual seeking ceremonial recognition.
She expressed appreciation to the Ghanaian government and traditional authorities for acting swiftly to de-escalate tensions.
“Nigeria and Ghana share a unique bond through ECOWAS and Pan-African principles,” she said. “It is vital that we continue to promote peace, mutual respect, and regional unity.”
Words from the Ga-Dangme Overlord
In response, Nuumo Gborbu Wulomo-Shitse thanked the Nigerian delegation for their visit and praised both governments for their prompt efforts in managing the issue. He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to peace and diplomacy, noting that former President John Dramani Mahama had laid a strong foundation for regional integration.
He stressed the unbreakable link between Ghana and Nigeria and invoked Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s vision of African unity.
“With so many Ghanaians in Nigeria and Nigerians in Ghana, we must ensure that misunderstandings don’t weaken our brotherhood,” he said.
The Overlord also referenced the recent joint celebration of the Nungua Kplejoo (Homowo) Festival with Nigerian nationals, describing it as a testament to ongoing cultural collaboration. He expressed hope for future engagements with leaders of the Igbo community in Ghana to promote dialogue and unity.
Embracing Cultural Connections
Tetse Nii Bortey Kofi Frankwa II, the Oyibi Gonten Mantse and moderator of the meeting, echoed these sentiments. He spoke about the ancient ties between the people of Nungua and Benin City in Nigeria. He extended an invitation to Nigerians in Ghana to attend the annual Obeneshimo Festival, held every first Saturday in July. The festival reenacts the Ga-Dangme migration from Benin over eight centuries ago.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by both parties to peace, cultural exchange, and the advancement of Pan-African solidarity.