Once again, Nigerians are facing expulsion from Ghana, a troubling development that calls for deep introspection and urgent leadership at home.
Ghanaian authorities and some citizens have justified these removals by citing alleged criminal activities involving Nigerians, ranging from robbery and kidnapping to prostitution. The narrative, however unfortunate, suggests that the presence of Nigerians particularly Nigerian women is being linked to a perceived rise in illegal activity. As a result, calls for their expulsion have gained momentum.
This situation is not just distressing; it is deeply humiliating. That Nigerians are increasingly perceived as unwanted in various parts of the world reflects a national tragedy one rooted in decades of systemic leadership failure. It begs the question: how did the most populous Black nation on earth come to be viewed as a source of instability rather than a beacon of hope?
The answer is not far-fetched. Chronic corruption, mismanagement of resources, and the absence of visionary governance have combined to create harsh economic realities for millions of Nigerians. With soaring unemployment, insecurity, poor infrastructure, and a failing education system, many citizens are left with no choice but to seek greener pastures abroad often under precarious and humiliating conditions.
This is not the first time such events have occurred. In the 1960s, Ghanaians expelled Nigerians en masse, and many lost their properties. In retaliation, the Nigerian government under President Shehu Shagari expelled thousands of Ghanaians in the 1980s, citing crime and competition for jobs as reasons. At the time, many Ghanaians worked in Nigeria as artisans and labourers a situation not too dissimilar from today.
Now, in 2025, history appears to be repeating itself. Although Ghana’s former President John Mahama has sought to reassure Nigerians by emphasizing the long-standing brotherhood between both nations, the reality remains stark: Nigerians continue to be profiled, mistreated, and unfairly targeted abroad.
The root of this humiliation, however, is not foreign. It lies within Nigeria. When our leaders fail to provide security, employment, and basic amenities, our people lose hope. In desperation, they flee not to conquer but to survive. And in doing so, they become vulnerable to abuse, stereotyping, and expulsion.
It is time for the Nigerian government to rise to the occasion. We must rebuild trust in institutions, create jobs, fight corruption without fear or favour, and invest in infrastructure that supports entrepreneurship and human dignity. A country that offers opportunity and respect to its citizens will not face the embarrassment of mass migration or the shame of international stigma.
Nigeria must become a place where dreams are nurtured, not exiled. The era of neglect must end. The nation must reclaim its dignity not through diplomatic outrage or retaliatory policies, but by building a society that works for its people.
Enough is enough. Nigeria must rise again. Nigeria must be great again.
Written By Festus Edovia,
PGD Student, Nigeria Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Lagos.
