Ghana’s President John Mahama has spoken candidly about his concerns over Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation — and his words carry both warmth and a stark warning for the region.
Speaking at an award ceremony in Ghana, Mahama said Nigeria’s stability is not just a domestic issue but a matter of critical importance to the entire African continent, and to Ghana in particular.
“Nigeria is of keen security interest to us. If Nigeria does well, Ghana does well,” the Ghanaian president said.
He went further, revealing that the situation weighs on him personally — enough to make it part of his daily prayers.
“Every day I wake up, I pray for Nigeria; I ask God to help the country get things right,” Mahama said.
The concern, however, goes beyond sentiment. Mahama issued a pointed warning about the potential ripple effects of Nigeria’s insecurity on neighbouring countries, with Ghana chief among them. He cautioned that if continued instability drives large-scale migration out of Nigeria, Ghana — given its deep historical and cultural ties with Nigeria — could face serious consequences.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s enormous population as a strength and economic asset, Mahama warned that the same population could become a significant pressure point for neighbouring nations if the security situation is left unchecked.
The comments reflect a growing unease across West Africa over Nigeria’s prolonged struggle with insecurity, ranging from banditry and terrorism in the north to economic instability affecting millions across the country.
