Ghana’s newly sworn-in President, John Dramani Mahama, paid a courtesy visit to Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja—marking his first official visit to Nigeria since his inauguration on January 7, 2025.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, President Mahama explained that his visit was twofold: first, to personally thank President Tinubu for honouring him with his presence at his swearing-in ceremony, and second, to engage in high-level discussions concerning the ongoing diplomatic efforts within the West African sub-region, particularly with military-led governments in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Mahama, who now chairs the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), revealed that he had recently embarked on diplomatic missions to the Sahel nations, aimed at fostering dialogue, enhancing regional cooperation, and addressing the pressing issues of security and political instability.
“I came to thank him for the great honour he did me by attending my inauguration. But more importantly, I also came to brief him on recent engagements with the leadership in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger,” Mahama stated. “As ECOWAS chairman, I believe it’s my responsibility to ensure that President Tinubu, who plays a pivotal role in our region, is fully informed and involved in these ongoing conversations.”
He emphasised the complexities surrounding the political dynamics in the Sahel region, stressing the importance of sustained dialogue over confrontation. “It’s a delicate situation—not one that can be resolved overnight. Continued dialogue is crucial if we are to find lasting solutions that benefit the region as a whole,” Mahama added.
President Tinubu, in response, welcomed Mahama warmly and expressed optimism about the collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria in navigating the geopolitical and security challenges facing West Africa.
“I feel truly honoured by his visit,” Tinubu said. “President Mahama’s efforts to build bridges between ECOWAS and the AES (Alliance of Sahel States) are commendable. Regional security in the Sahel is a shared responsibility, and we must harness all economic and diplomatic opportunities to protect lives and ensure prosperity for our people.”
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regional integration, peacebuilding, and a united front in the face of rising threats such as terrorism, unconstitutional regime changes, and economic hardship in West Africa.
As Mahama settles into his new role as Ghana’s leader and ECOWAS chair, his visit signals a renewed push for unity, dialogue, and partnership between key players in the region, with Nigeria expected to remain at the forefront of strategic efforts to stabilise the Sahel and beyond.
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