- Nigerians, Gambians among 14 deported to Accra
- Ghana invokes ECOWAS protocol for regional entry
- Nigeria earlier rejected US deportation request
The Government of Ghana has confirmed it is receiving West African nationals deported from the United States, including Nigerians, under a new bilateral arrangement between Accra and Washington.
According to a report by Eko Hot Blog, the deportees, who arrived in Accra earlier this week, were mostly from Nigeria, The Gambia, and other ECOWAS member states. Ghana’s government said the decision to accept them aligns with the ECOWAS free movement protocol, which allows citizens of member states to travel, reside, and work within the region without needing a visa.
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President John Mahama disclosed that an initial batch of 14 individuals had been received, and that more deportees may follow in the coming weeks. He added that the Ghanaian government is providing logistical and welfare support to help the returnees settle temporarily or transition to their countries of origin if they wish.
The move comes amid increased pressure by the US to repatriate undocumented migrants and third-country nationals under tightened immigration laws. While some West African countries have resisted these returns, Ghana’s acceptance of non-Ghanaian deportees marks a shift in regional response.
President Mahama explained that Ghana’s stance is informed by the need for regional solidarity, especially during humanitarian situations. He assured the public that all individuals being received have undergone security screening and that the process is being coordinated with relevant international bodies.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has reiterated its earlier position, stating that it will not accept deportees who are not Nigerian citizens. Officials cited economic constraints and concerns over national security, making Ghana’s move even more significant within the West African context.
Human rights advocates have weighed in on the matter, urging host countries like Ghana to ensure the rights and dignity of deportees are respected. They also called on ECOWAS states to work collaboratively in addressing the root causes of irregular migration in the region.
The Ghanaian government has said it remains committed to upholding both its regional obligations and humanitarian values as it navigates the complex challenges of migration and international diplomacy.
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