Ibrahim Adjei, former Assistant Secretary at the Office of the former President, Nana Akufo-Addo, has appealed to foreign nationals seeking to enter Ghana to do so through legal means, stressing that while Ghana remains a hospitable country, illegal migration poses serious challenges to national order and security.
His remarks follow a round-up by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), which led to the arrest of over 2,200 undocumented foreign beggars from various parts of Accra. In the operation, a total of 2,241 foreign beggars, including 384 adult males, 525 adult females, 577 male children, and 755 female children, were apprehended across eleven high-traffic areas in Accra.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Monday, May 19, Adjei supported the government’s efforts to enforce immigration laws, but warned that the problem could persist unless entry through Ghana’s borders is properly regulated and continuously monitored.
“When they come back and they are arrested and sent back immediately, eventually, they will get the message. No one is saying Nigerians or any other nationals cannot come to Ghana. But please, come legally, so you can enjoy the hospitality that we are known for,” he stated.
Mr. Adjei emphasised that illegal immigration cannot be completely eradicated, but consistent enforcement would serve as a deterrent over time, expressing concern over the repeated re-entry of undocumented migrants, pointing to systemic weaknesses in border management.
“You can’t cure every single illegal migrant; that’s not realistic. But with repeated action, over time, the impact will be felt. Ghana loves you. But come the right way,” he appealed.
