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Undeterred by the new wave of anti-Nigeria hate-speech and demonstrations by sections of the Ghanaian public, Nigerians and friends of Nigeria gathered in Accra recently to celebrate Nigerian excellence, unity, and contributions to Ghana at the 2025 edition of the 65 Most Impactful Nigerians in Ghana’ Awards. The high-profile event, organised as part of the commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, recognized 65 distinguished Nigerians whose outstanding achievements have significantly contributed to strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Ghana, and to the development of their respective sectors. In his keynote address, the acting High Commissioner of Nigeria to Ghana, Ambassador Moses Ifedayo Adeoye, lauded the awardees for their exemplary service and positive representation of Nigeria in Ghana. He noted that their efforts reflect the resilience, creativity, and industry that define the Nigerian spirit across Africa and beyond. “You have distinguished themselves in business, education, health, art, technology and community service, among others. You have shown that being Nigerian means more than nationality. It means excellence, creativity and the courage to make a difference wherever we find ourselves. And we commend you all for this. Ghana and Nigeria share not only geographical proximity, irrespective of Togo and Benin in between the two, but, also, deep historical and cultural bonds. The cooperation between our two nations has stood the test of time, from trade and education to diplomacy and people-to-people relations. “The success stories we are celebrating today further strengthens these ties reminding us that our destinies are intertwined and that we can achieve more together. Our host community has been so benevolent to us, creating a conducive environment that has enabled different people who are being celebrated today to excel in their chosen paths and careers. As the representative of the federal government (of Nigeria), I am proud of how the Nigerian community in Ghana continues to project the positive image of our country. Despite challenges, you have remained ambassadors of peace, enterprise and unity. “Let this recognition inspire you to even do more and to mentor the younger generation to uphold ethical standards and to be good representatives of our dear country, Nigeria. “To the awardees, accept my heartfelt congratulations. You are the torchbearers of a proud legacy, and your achievement reminds us that greatness knows no borders. Continue to be shining examples of what Nigerians can achieve when driven by purpose and guided by value,” Adeoye told the awardees. Noting the importance of unity among Nigerians in the diaspora, he urged Nigerians in Ghana to continue supporting Ghana-Nigeria relations and to serve as bridges for sustainable collaboration between both nations; and, commended the organizers for celebrating Nigerian excellence on Ghanaian soil, noting that such events foster mutual understanding and people-to-people diplomacy. Also speaking at the event, President of the All Nigerian Community (ANC), Bayo Asaolu, emphasized the importance of unity and mutual support among Nigerians living in Ghana; and, encouraged Nigerians to confidently celebrate their achievements, reinforcing the belief that if they did not blow their own trumpet no one will do so for them. Read also: Hassan Ayariga, Operation Dudulla and danger of Africa’s xenophobic politicians He urged the awardees to continue projecting the positive image and remarkable contributions of Nigerians across Ghana, and expressed confidence that with unity of purpose and strong community structures, the Nigerian community in Ghana will continue to thrive and represent the country honorably. Earlier in his welcome speech, organizer of the event Comrade Barry Ndu Nwaihim, said the awards seek to recognise the exceptional individuals who are making a significant impact across various sectors and to celebrate their achievements while they are still alive, ensuring their hard work is acknowledged and they are remembered for their contributions. “As our dear country marked its 65th Independence anniversary on 1st October, it is important to appreciate how far we have come as a people. There have been challenges as citizens in this beautiful country but our undeniable courage, consistency, positive determination and tenacity have kept us going. We urge all citizens to remain focused on the reasons why we came to Ghana. Never indulge in any activity that would undermine our country or give us negative publicity. In all things, we shall conquer. We shall succeed in this land and Nigeria would be proud of us.” He urged the awardees, in particular, and Nigerians living in Ghana, generally, to never relent in letting the world know the positive side of our country. The Most Impactful Nigerians in Ghana Awards is an annual event dedicated to recognizing Nigerian individuals and institutions who have made remarkable contributions to society and enhanced bilateral ties between the two West African neighbours. The 2025 edition brought together high-profile from the six geopolitical zones of the country now living in the 16 regions of Ghana, underscoring the unifying role the event plays in the fabric of the Nigerian community in Ghana. The event was organised by the Most Impactful Nigerians in Ghana organisation with support from the Nigerian High Commission in Accra, and various other entities. Distinguished individuals were honored at the event for their excellence in various fields, including business, law, and humanitarian work. They included Olatunde Popoola, a dentist; Chinwe Ulunma Nwawuba-Chyke, a seasoned accountant, philanthropist and serial entrepreneur; Chyke Chiori, managing director of logistics company, LeasAfric-Switch; Sheriff Mohammed Goni, president of the Arewa community in Ghana; and Nkechi Akunyili, chief executive officer of Acces View Africa, among others.
