Nairobi: President John Dramani Mahama has called for increased collaboration between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. This call was made during his installation as Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, Nigeria.

According to Ghana News Agency, the AES was formed to enhance political, economic, and security cooperation among the three nations with the aim of achieving greater sovereignty and self-determination after their departure from ECOWAS. President Mahama emphasized the importance of fostering connections between ECOWAS and the Sahel States, underscoring that their destinies are intertwined.

He urged against ostracizing the AES countries and advocated for building bridges to encourage their reintegration into ECOWAS. President Mahama referenced a Ghanaian adage about helping neighbors in need to illustrate the importance of regional cooperation.

Highlighting the historical bond between Ghana and Nigeria, President Mahama noted that the prosperity of one country benefits the other. He humorously added that the exceptions to this camaraderie are during football matches and debates over jollof rice.

The President expressed gratitude for his new title, viewing it as a recognition for all Ghanaians and a means to further strengthen Ghana-Nigeria relations. The Ooni of Ife praised President Mahamas leadership, noting his positive impact on Ghanas economy.