Ghana’s decision to receive certain West African nationals detained abroad has nothing to do with financial or material support from the United States, Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa told Parliament on November 19, 2025.
The move, he explained, was motivated purely by humanitarian principles and the country’s Pan-African ideals, reflecting Ghana’s longstanding commitment to regional solidarity. The foreign minister emphasized that Ghana voluntarily agreed to provide refuge to these individuals, many of whom were being treated unfairly and held in difficult conditions.
During the session, Ablakwa outlined that under ECOWAS protocols, West African citizens do not require visas to travel across member states. This policy allows them to stay in Ghana for up to 90 days, reinforcing the government’s approach to regional integration and humanitarian responsibility.
The minister’s clarification came in response to inquiries about whether Ghana benefited materially from the arrangement with the United States and what measures were undertaken to ensure national security. He stated that all actions taken are fully compliant with Ghanaian law and involve coordination across multiple state agencies. Decisions on admitting individuals of special status follow directives from the President and Cabinet, with thorough background checks conducted by national security, immigration, and related institutions.
Once information regarding potential arrivals is received through diplomatic channels, it is promptly shared with the Ministry of the Interior, the National Security Council Secretariat, and the Ghana Immigration Service. These agencies conduct comprehensive threat assessments to ensure public safety is not compromised.
Ablakwa also highlighted Ghana’s historic role in offering refuge to individuals from Liberia, Sierra Leone, Lebanon, Côte d’Ivoire, and others, including special cases such as former Guantanamo Bay detainees. In all instances, rigorous inter-agency coordination, continuous monitoring, and security protocols have ensured that the country remains safe while upholding its humanitarian commitments.
The minister reassured Parliament that Ghana’s track record of peace and stability remains strong despite its open and welcoming stance toward individuals in need. He stressed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue working closely with security and immigration authorities to maintain strict compliance with established procedures, safeguarding the nation while promoting Pan-African solidarity.
