The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, on Thursday paid a courtesy visit to Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, at the State House in Accra. The meeting reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Ghana and focused on shared economic and security challenges in West Africa.
During the visit, Emir Sanusi recalled his first official interaction with President Mahama during the global financial crisis, when both men held significant public roles. At the time, Sanusi had just assumed office as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, while Mahama was Ghana’s Vice President.
“I had to come at very short notice to reassure Ghana that its banks were safe,” the Emir said, referring to the anxiety that arose over Nigerian banks operating in Ghana during the crisis. He noted that they met again years later, including after the passing of President John Atta Mills, when Mahama became President.
Sanusi explained that his latest visit was primarily to congratulate Mahama on his recent election victory and to commend his leadership in the West African region.
“I felt that after your victory, I should make time to personally congratulate you and appreciate the leadership you have provided in West Africa,” he stated.
He described his visit as symbolic, noting that Ghana felt like home to him and his delegation. The Emir introduced members of his team, including his Chief of Staff and Private Secretary, and disclosed that he would lead prayers in Kumasi the next day before departing Ghana on Sunday.
In his remarks, President Mahama briefed the Emir on Ghana’s economic recovery, highlighting the country’s progress under the G20 Common Framework for Debt Treatment. He said Ghana had made significant strides since restructuring its debt.
“The economy has stabilized, the currency has strengthened, and inflation has dropped from 23.8 percent to 6.3 percent,” Mahama said, expressing confidence in Ghana’s economic future.
He also emphasized the economic interdependence between Nigeria and Ghana, saying, “If Nigeria prospers, Ghana prospers, and if Ghana prospers, Nigeria prospers.” He expressed hope that both nations would play leading roles in revitalizing West Africa’s economy.
Addressing regional security concerns, Mahama noted the growing instability in the Sahel and called for deeper collaboration to counter armed groups. He stressed the need for a united front, saying, “The three AES countries cannot defeat these armed groups alone—they need the support of all of us.”
Mahama also commended Emir Sanusi’s past service as CBN Governor, crediting him with restoring confidence in Nigeria’s banking sector and strengthening Nigerian banks across the continent.
“Nigerian banks such as Zenith and Access Bank are among Africa’s strongest today,” he said.
He concluded by wishing the Emir a pleasant stay in Ghana and expressed hope to visit Kano again, recalling that he had once lived in the city for several years.
