President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has approved a new policy allowing visa-free entry to Ghana for all African nationals, fulfilling a promise he made earlier this year.

The initiative is expected to be implemented before the end of his term on January 6, 2025.

With this move, Ghana will join Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin as one of the few African nations offering unrestricted visa-free access to all African passport holders.

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The policy is seen as a significant step toward promoting free movement across the continent, enhancing trade, and deepening economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

President Akufo-Addo announced the policy during his keynote address at the 2024 Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) held in Accra.

Speaking under the theme “Developing Prosperity in Africa: Produce, Add Value, and Trade,” he highlighted the challenges Africans face when traveling within the continent.

“Many of you had to acquire a visa to attend this event,” he said, emphasizing the barriers to intra-African mobility.

He described the visa-free policy as a solution to these challenges and a critical step toward achieving the goals of the AfCFTA.

“The free movement of people is essential for stimulating intra-African trade and fostering collaboration across borders,” Akufo-Addo added, noting that the policy aligns with Ghana’s broader vision of promoting economic growth through integration.

The visa-free initiative is expected to enhance Ghana’s standing in the region, making it easier for African nationals to travel, trade, and collaborate.

By eliminating visa requirements, Ghana aims to position itself as a leader in continental integration, creating opportunities for deeper economic ties with other African nations.

The policy also underscores Ghana’s commitment to the AfCFTA, which seeks to establish a unified market for goods and services across Africa.

Officials believe this move will attract businesses and encourage cross-border trade, ultimately boosting the continent’s economy.

The Ghanaian government has begun taking steps to implement the policy, with full rollout expected before the end of Akufo-Addo’s presidency.

Officials are updating immigration procedures to accommodate the new framework and ensure a smooth transition.

President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the initiative during his address.

“We are taking concrete steps to ensure that this policy becomes a reality this year,” he stated, signaling that the groundwork for implementation is already underway.

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians of the federal government’s dedication to national security, economic transformation, and welfare of the citizens.

This was detailed in a Christmas message on Wednesday afternoon in Abuja under the signature of the Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha.

According to the Vice President, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unwavering in its focus on these critical areas, as the country looks forward to the dawn of a new year.

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He said, “In these times of economic transformation, I want to assure you that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration remains steadfast in its commitment to improving the lives of all Nigerians.”

Vice President Shettima particularly urged the citizens to imbibe the virtues of national unity during the yuletide season.

“Nigeria’s diversity remains our greatest strength. Let us avail ourselves of the time provided by the holiday season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that unite us across all faiths and regions,” he said.

Senator Shettima assured Nigerians of the continued vigilance of the nation’s security forces, noting that “our brave security personnel will continue to work round the clock during this festive period to keep us safe.”

He said enhanced security measures have been put in place to protect the citizens during the holiday period.

“The relevant agencies have been mobilized to ensure your safety and comfort on all major routes,” he stated, urging travelers to remain vigilant.

VP Shettima expressed optimism about the nation’s trajectory in the coming year, saying, “I am filled with hope and optimism about Nigeria’s future. Together, we will build a more prosperous and united nation.

“To our young people, you are the backbone of our nation. The Renewed Hope administration is implementing various initiatives to create opportunities for you to thrive and contribute to Nigeria’s development,” he added.

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has felicitated Christians in Osun State and beyond on the occasion of the 2024 Christmas celebration, urging them to follow Jesus Christ’s example of compassion and tolerance.

Biztellers reports that Gov Adeleke described the birth of Jesus Christ as a defining moment for mankind, in a statement in Osogbo on Tuesday.

He described the festive season as a solemn reminder of the power of love and how it can save humanity.

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While recognising unity and togetherness as an important message that Jesus Christ’s life resonates, Gov Adeleke charged Osun people, particularly Christians, to draw from the spiritual import of the celebration by sharing love and fostering harmony in communities.

In his words, “I extend my warm wishes to Christian faithful in Osun state and beyond as we mark this year’s Christmas. The birth of Jesus Christ is a manifestation of the power of love and remind us of the essence of compassion,” the Governor noted in his message.

“In the mood of celebration, I urge us to take a moment to reflect on the message of renewal that the birth of Jesus Christ signifies, promoting activities that will unite not divide, build not destroy, and bring peace not conflict.

“It is also my sincere appeal that we extend hands of kindness to the needy and the weak in the society, spreading love and generosity beyond borders. That is the essence of Christmas and it is most essential that at a time like this, no one is left to their fate.”