During his recent visit to the Ghanaian Chancery in Lagos, Nigeria, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, was visibly disheartened by the severe deterioration of state-owned properties. The dilapidated condition of the building and its facilities left him deeply concerned.
Cramped, Outdated, and In Disrepair: A Deeply Shocking Discovery
Upon inspecting the chancery, which was described as small and cramped, the Minister was taken aback by the outdated furniture and malfunctioning air-conditioners. The washrooms were in equally poor condition, and the state of disrepair continued with leaking roofs and deteriorated ceilings in the residential apartments housing Ghana’s diplomats.
“This is sad,” Minister Ablakwa remarked, visibly shaken by the state of disrepair.
Urgent Call for Repairs: A Matter of National Dignity
The Head of Chancery, Barbara Entee, emphasized the urgency of repairs, describing the structural defects as undeniable. “When it rains, water enters the residence,” she explained. She highlighted that the timing of the Minister’s visit could not have been more appropriate, given the visible damage. According to her, the high cost of maintaining the property posed a significant challenge, and she expressed hope that Minister Ablakwa would push for the reconstruction of both the chancery and the residential units. “The property doesn’t speak well of Ghana,” she added, stressing the importance of improving the condition of Ghana’s foreign assets.
Ghana’s Property Ownership in Lagos: A Wake-Up Call
Acquired in 2008 from the defunct Nigerian Airways, the Lagos property has been a symbol of Ghana’s diplomatic presence in Nigeria. Currently, Ghana owns two properties in Lagos, one of which is rented to a multinational company. The chancery and residential buildings accommodate 23 staff members, including 10 diplomats.
Minister Ablakwa’s Commitment: Actions Speak Louder Than Words
In his remarks, Minister Ablakwa reassured the staff and the wider Ghanaian community of his dedication to resolving the issue. “My actions will be louder than my words when I return to Ghana,” he promised. He pledged to ensure that Ghana’s foreign properties are renovated or reconstructed to meet the required standards, reflecting the dignity of Ghana’s international representation.
Focus on Property Renovations in Abuja and Beyond
In Abuja, Ghana owns four properties, one of which was abandoned after a fire incident. Minister Ablakwa assured that his ministry would focus on acquiring new properties annually rather than selling existing ones. This commitment signals a broader effort to prioritize the improvement and upkeep of Ghana’s assets abroad.
A Personal Revelation: Minister Ablakwa’s First-Hand Experience
The visit to the Lagos chancery was an eye-opener for Minister Ablakwa, who admitted it was his first time seeing many of Ghana’s properties abroad. He vowed to prioritize the restoration and maintenance of these diplomatic properties to ensure they meet the standards expected of Ghana’s foreign representation.