The Government of Ghana has officially confirmed its decision to accept West African nationals—including Nigerians and a Gambian—who were recently deported from the United States. This development marks a significant moment in regional cooperation and humanitarian diplomacy, as Ghana steps forward to facilitate the safe return of displaced individuals across the subregion.
President John Dramani Mahama, speaking at a press briefing in Accra, announced that the first group of 14 deportees had already arrived in Ghana. The individuals were processed and supported in their onward journey to their respective home countries, with Ghana acting as a transit and reception hub.
“We were approached by the US to accept third-party nationals who were being removed from the country, and we agreed that West African nationals were acceptable because all our fellow West Africans don’t need a visa to come to our country,” said President Mahama.
This arrangement comes amid intensified deportation efforts by the United States under President Donald Trump’s immigration policy, which includes seeking third-country agreements to expedite removals. Ghana’s decision aligns with the ECOWAS protocol that allows visa-free movement among member states, reinforcing the country’s commitment to regional unity and humanitarian responsibility.
While Nigeria has declined similar requests citing national security and economic concerns, Ghana’s openness has drawn attention from international observers and human rights organizations. The Ghanaian government has not specified a cap on the number of deportees it may accept, but emphasized that the process will be managed with dignity and care.