ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigeria and Ghana have stepped up diplomatic engagement to prevent a prolonged commercial dispute over the River Park Estate in Abuja from escalating into broader bilateral tensions.
The move followed a meeting between the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the Acting High Commissioner of Ghana in Abuja. Details were contained in a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
At the centre of the discussions was the ownership dispute between a Ghanaian investor and a Nigerian business counterpart over the River Park Estate located along Airport Road, Lugbe.
The Ghanaian envoy stressed the need for diplomatic intervention to avoid unnecessary strain on relations between both countries.
“We consider it important to engage through diplomatic channels to prevent the dispute from escalating into an issue capable of generating unnecessary public tension,” she said, while raising concerns over the safety and welfare of Ghanaian nationals connected to the investment.
She appealed to the Nigerian government to facilitate engagement with relevant authorities to ensure protection of lives, property and investments as legal processes continue.
Responding, Ambassador Ahmed reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to its longstanding bilateral relations with Ghana, assuring that the concerns raised would be carefully reviewed.
“While the dispute appears to be commercial and legal in nature, the Ministry will study the information submitted and make appropriate recommendations,” he said.
He added that relevant government institutions would be engaged through established diplomatic channels where necessary, emphasising Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law and protection of legitimate investments.
The Permanent Secretary also urged all parties to pursue peaceful dialogue and lawful means in resolving the dispute.
Both countries reiterated their commitment to sustained diplomatic engagement, cooperation and the protection of citizens, while working to preserve strong economic and political ties.
The River Park Estate dispute has drawn attention for its potential impact on investor confidence and Nigeria-Ghana relations if not carefully managed.
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