The Chief Director of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council (NRCC), Mr. Sumaila Ewuntomah Abudu, has reaffirmed the Northern Region’s commitment to strengthening the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Burkina Faso through enhanced cooperation, dialogue and cross-border collaboration.
Mr. Abudu made the remarks when he received the Ambassador of Burkina Faso to Ghana, H.E. Kabre David, and his delegation on behalf of the Northern Regional Minister at the NRCC Conference Hall in Tamale on Tuesday, 21 July, 2026, where a high-level stakeholders’ meeting was held to deliberate on critical issues affecting trade, security, immigration and the movement of people between the two neighbouring countries.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders including the Northern Regional Police Commander, the Northern Regional Immigration Commander, the Regional Customs (CEPS) Commander, representatives of the Ghana National Cargo Truck Drivers Association (GNCTA), senior officials of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council, and officials of the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly.
Welcoming the delegation on behalf of the Chiefs and people of the Northern Region, Mr. Sumaila Ewuntomah Abudu expressed appreciation to the Ambassador for the visit, describing it as another significant step towards deepening the cordial ties that have existed between Ghana and Burkina Faso over the years.
He noted that the two countries share not only common borders but also strong historical, cultural and economic relations, making continuous engagement essential in addressing emerging cross-border challenges while promoting mutual development.
Mr. Abudu assured the Ambassador of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council’s readiness to collaborate with all relevant institutions to facilitate peaceful coexistence, improve trade, and enhance security along the shared borders.
Speaking at the meeting, the Ambassador of Burkina Faso to Ghana, H.E. Kabre David, expressed profound appreciation to the Chief Director and the people of the Northern Region for the warm reception accorded him and his delegation.
The Ambassador also extended heartfelt condolences to the Chiefs and people of Dagbon following the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Yaa-Naa Abukari II, describing the late traditional ruler as a symbol of peace, unity and stability whose contributions would remain remembered.
Addressing the purpose of the meeting, H.E. Kabre David highlighted several concerns affecting citizens of both countries, particularly challenges encountered by travellers along the Ghana-Burkina Faso corridor.
He explained that numerous complaints had been received regarding the screening processes at border posts and security checkpoints, including the alleged seizure of national identity cards and other travel documents, which he said had made cross-border travel stressful for many people.
The Ambassador appealed for greater collaboration among security agencies and border authorities to streamline procedures while maintaining the necessary security standards to facilitate the free movement of people and goods between the two countries.
Responding to concerns raised during the meeting, the Northern Regional Police Commander explained that the numerous security checkpoints and thorough screening of vehicles were part of proactive measures aimed at combating the increasing incidents of armed robbery, terrorism-related threats, smuggling and other transnational crimes along the highways leading to the GhanaβBurkina Faso border.
He noted that the intensified security operations had significantly reduced criminal activities on the roads and enhanced the safety of travellers and commercial transport operators. He, however, stressed the need to strike a balance between security and the smooth movement of people and goods.
The Regional Police Commander further called for the strengthening of the ECOWAS Protocols on Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment, emphasizing that the effective implementation of these protocols would facilitate regional integration, promote legitimate trade, and improve relations among member states while ensuring that security agencies continue to perform their lawful responsibilities professionally and efficiently.
The Regional Immigration Commander also briefed the meeting on the mandate of the Ghana Immigration Service, stressing the Service’s responsibility to regulate migration, facilitate lawful travel, and ensure compliance with immigration laws while safeguarding national security.
Similarly, the Regional Customs (CEPS) Commander outlined the critical role of Customs officers in protecting state revenue, preventing smuggling, and ensuring legitimate cross-border trade in accordance with existing regulations.
Representing the Ghana National Cargo Truck Drivers Association (GNCTA), Alhaji Nuru Aliu expressed concern over what he described as unnecessary charges imposed on cargo trucks at some checkpoints and border posts in both Ghana and Burkina Faso.
He appealed to the relevant authorities in both countries to address the situation to ensure the smooth movement of cargo, reduce transportation costs and promote efficient regional trade under existing bilateral and regional trade agreements.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment by all stakeholders to strengthen cooperation, improve communication among border institutions, address the concerns raised by transport operators and travellers, and sustain the strong diplomatic and economic relations between Ghana and Burkina Faso for the mutual benefit of both nations.