Nigeria, Ghana Move to Contain River Park Estate Dispute, Reaffirm Strong Bilateral Ties
Oru Leonard
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations with Ghana while pursuing a peaceful resolution of a commercial dispute involving the ownership of the River Park Estate along Airport Road in Lugbe, Abuja.
This assurance was given on Thursday when the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, received the Acting High Commissioner of Ghana in Abuja to discuss recent developments in relations between both countries.
A major issue at the meeting was the prolonged dispute between a Ghanaian investor and a Nigerian business partner over the ownership of the River Park Estate.
The Ghanaian Acting High Commissioner commended the Nigerian government for granting the meeting at short notice and stressed Ghana’s commitment to its longstanding relationship with Nigeria.
She explained that Ghana opted for diplomatic engagement to prevent the commercial disagreement from escalating into a matter capable of creating unnecessary tension between the two neighbouring countries.
The envoy also raised concerns over the safety and welfare of Ghanaian nationals connected with the investment, alleging that recent developments surrounding the disputed property had heightened tensions. She appealed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to engage relevant Nigerian authorities to ensure the protection of lives, property and investments while legal proceedings continue.
Responding, Ambassador Ahmed reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to preserving the excellent bilateral relations between both countries and assured the Ghanaian delegation that the concerns raised would receive due attention.
He noted that although the matter appeared to be a commercial and legal dispute, the Ministry would carefully study the information presented, prepare a report and make appropriate recommendations to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The Permanent Secretary also assured the delegation that relevant government institutions would be engaged through established diplomatic channels where necessary.
He stressed that Nigeria remains committed to the rule of law and the protection of legitimate investments, while urging all parties involved to pursue peaceful dialogue and lawful mechanisms in resolving the dispute.
Ahmed further pledged that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would continue working closely with the Ghana High Commission and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the matter is handled responsibly in a manner that preserves the longstanding friendship between Nigeria and Ghana.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to sustained diplomatic engagement, the protection of citizens, the promotion of investment and the continued strengthening of bilateral cooperation between the two West African nations.
