Ghana assures on resolution of dispute with Nigeria
The President of Ghana, Nana Akufo Ado, has assured the Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, that his government would consider the resolutions reached at the legislative diplomacy bilateral meeting between Nigeria and Ghana’s senior legislators on September 2.
In a statement yesterday, the House spokesman, Benjamon Kalu, disclosed that the Ghanian president gave the assurance when the speaker of Ghana’s parliament, Prof. Mike Oquaye, led Gbajabiamila on a courtesy visit to the president on Thursday.
Speaking on the request by
Gbajabiamila for a review of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Act to make certain concessions, the Ghanaian president said the request was in order.
Akuffo-Addo expressed satisfaction with Gbajabiamila’s visit and endorsed his proposal for the establishment of a ‘Nigeria-Ghana Business Council’ in both countries.
He also suggested the setting up of a joint ministerial committee between the two countries that would shepherd issues between Ghana and Nigeria and promised to raise the issue with President Muhammadu Buhari when they meet at the ECOWAS summit on Monday.
“I think the way forward, which is really what matters in situations like this, that is being suggested, one that I find very acceptable, the idea of a legislation, a Nigeria Ghana business council that will superintendent trade matters and investment matters between our two countries, maybe long overdue.”
“The time has come for us to take these worthwhile steps. I suggested to Mr. President that it will be a good idea to set up a joint ministerial committee of ministers from both sides who will be responsible for shepherding Ghana and Nigeria issues, reporting to both presidents at any one time, and that is how they should be resolved.
“I am hoping when I see him on Monday for the ECOWAS summit, we can advance these discussions and come to a final conclusion,” he said.