Ambassador Dr. Timothy Ihemadu is the Head of Mission – Nigeria of the International Organization for Sustainable Development & Member, National Gas Expansion Programme Technical Working Group. On Tuesday, he appeared on DOMINION Television’s live programme, Wake Up Africa, where he discussed the recent presidential elections in Ghana, the victory of former President John Dramani Mahama, and the implications for Africa, particularly Nigeria.
EXCERPTS:
Ghana’s recent presidential election, resulting in the victory of Democratic Stability and Regional Influence
Ghana’s peaceful electoral process and the seamless transition of power reinforce its status as a beacon of democracy in West Africa. This stability is crucial for the region, especially considering the political challenges faced by neighbouring countries. Nigeria, sharing close political and economic ties with Ghana, can draw lessons from this democratic resilience to bolster its own democratic institutions and processes.
Economic Policy and Regional Trade
Mahama’s administration is expected to focus on economic reforms, including renegotiating terms of the $3 billion International Monetary Fund bailout secured last year to restructure Ghana’s debt. His plans to invest in agriculture and infrastructure aim to stimulate economic growth and address challenges such as inflation and unemployment. Given the interconnected economies of West Africa, Nigeria stands to benefit from a stable and prosperous Ghana through enhanced trade relations and economic cooperation.
Security Collaboration
The Sahel region’s security challenges, including terrorism and insurgencies, require coordinated efforts. Ghana’s commitment to combating these issues aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing battle against similar threats. Strengthened bilateral relations and shared security initiatives between Ghana and Nigeria could enhance regional stability and collective security.
Youth Engagement and Political Participation
Mahama’s campaign resonated with young Ghanaians, reflecting a broader trend across Africa where youth populations are increasingly influencing political landscapes. Nigeria, with its substantial youth demographic, can observe and adapt strategies that effectively engage young citizens in governance and nation-building.
In summary, President Mahama’s victory presents opportunities for deepening democratic practices, economic collaboration, security partnerships, and youth engagement in Africa, with Nigeria poised to be a key partner in these endeavours.
Concerning Africa’s—and notably Nigeria’s—natural gas expansion initiatives I am of the opinion that the following points need to be considered:
1. Renewed Energy Policies: Mahama’s administration is expected to introduce policies that bolster Ghana’s oil and gas sector, potentially influencing regional energy strategies.
2. Strengthening the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP): Ghana’s commitment to the WAGP, which transports Nigerian natural gas to West African countries, could be reinforced, enhancing energy security and economic integration.
3. Encouraging Regional Collaboration: Mahama has previously emphasized the need for Nigeria to lead in global energy politics, suggesting a collaborative approach to regional energy challenges.
4. Impact on the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline: Ghana’s stance under Mahama’s leadership may influence the progress and regional support for the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline project, which aims to transport Nigerian gas to Europe.
5. Economic Growth through Energy: Ghana’s advancements in the gas sector, such as the Atuabo Gas Plant, serve as models for economic transformation that Nigeria and other African nations might emulate.
6. Potential for Joint Ventures: Mahama’s administration may seek joint ventures with Nigerian firms, fostering technology transfer and investment in the gas sector.
7. Influence on Energy Policy Reforms: Ghana’s policy shifts could inspire Nigeria to implement reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and transparency in its gas industry.
8. Regional Energy Security: Strengthened Ghana-Nigeria relations could lead to collaborative efforts in securing energy infrastructure against threats, ensuring consistent supply.
9. Market Expansion Opportunities: Ghana’s growing gas industry may open new markets for Nigerian natural gas, promoting economic diversification.
10. Environmental Considerations: Both nations might collaborate on adopting cleaner energy technologies, reducing carbon emissions in line with global environmental standards.
11. Addressing Energy Poverty: Joint initiatives could be developed to tackle energy poverty in West Africa, improving access to electricity for millions.
12. Infrastructure Development: Collaborative infrastructure projects, such as pipelines and processing facilities, could be pursued to enhance regional energy distribution.
13. Investment in Human Capital: Both countries may focus on training and developing expertise in the gas sector, creating employment opportunities and fostering innovation.
14. Leveraging International Partnerships: Ghana and Nigeria might jointly engage with international partners to attract investment and technical expertise in the gas industry.
15. Standardizing Regulatory Frameworks: Harmonizing regulations could facilitate cross-border energy projects, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and attracting investors.
16. Enhancing Competitiveness: Regional collaboration could improve the competitiveness of West African gas in the global market, increasing revenue.
17. Diversifying Energy Sources: Both nations might explore diversification within the energy sector, including the development of renewable energy sources alongside natural gas.
18. Mitigating Supply Disruptions: Collaborative strategies could be developed to mitigate disruptions in gas supply, ensuring energy stability for industrial and domestic use.
19. Promoting Sustainable Development: Joint efforts could focus on ensuring that gas expansion projects are environmentally sustainable and socially responsible.
20. Addressing Legal and Contractual Challenges: Both countries may work together to resolve legal disputes and contractual issues that hinder gas sector development.
21. Fostering Regional Integration: Enhanced cooperation in the gas sector could serve as a catalyst for broader economic integration within the West African region.
