In a significant gathering of Nigerian leaders in Ghana, key community figures met to deliberate the future of the All Nigerian Community (ANC), focusing on leadership structure, unity among geopolitical zones, and the proposed ANC Welfare Identity Card initiative.
Participants at the Meeting
Prominent members present included Mazi Emeka Alozie from the Igbo Community, Hon. Bruno, Chief David Ukwuegbu from South South, Hon. Olabisi representing the Yoruba Community, the ANC Eastern Regional Chairman, Madam Ophelia (South South) and 1st Vice President of ANC, Hon. High Chief Bayo Asaolu, the National President of ANC. Chief Akintola also represented the Yoruba Elder’s Council among others.
These leaders, representing different geopolitical zones and regions, converged with a shared vision—to foster unity and transparency within the Nigerian community in Ghana.
What is ANC and Why Was It Formed?
All Nigerian Community Ghana” (ANC-Ghans) was formed to provide a platform for Nigerians in Ghana to connect, collaborate, and support each other, especially during periods of migration and integration. Key objectives have included fostering social cohesion, promoting cultural exchange, and potentially assisting with the legal and bureaucratic processes of migration.
Dr. Bayor Albert Asaolu in his address during the meeting explained that All Nigerian Community Ghana (ANC-Ghana) was built on the representation of the dominant Nigerian tribes in Ghana, which are also from the geopolitical zone structure back home. The ANC Ghana has four sectional pillar, Arewa (North), Igbo (East), Yoruba (West), and South South. Leadership rotates among these zones.
“The ANC-Ghana structure is built on equity and the present rotation of leadership among the dominant Nigerian tribes in Ghana was established at the Nigeria High Commission, at a time transition of leadership was posing a challenge. But we thank God that all those things are now a thing of the past , and my administration is focused on moving everyone forward , regardless of tribe or any other sociocultural affilliation as Nigerians in Ghana. United we stand, divided we fall,” said Dr. Asaolu.
ANC’s purpose is to represent Nigerian interests collectively, advocating for a stronger, more structured Nigerian presence in Ghana.
The ANC Card Initiative: Promoting Welfare and Representation
A major highlight of the meeting was the proposed ANC Welfare Identity Card for Nigerians in Ghana. This card is designed to:
1. Establish Credibility: Creating a structured, recognized identity for Nigerians in Ghana.
2. Enhance Security: Distinguish genuine Nigerians from imposters.
3. Improve Access: Enable members to access welfare programs, including healthcare.
4. Streamline Coordination: Support efficient data management for better community service.
This card, priced at GHC 300 initially and GHC 200 annually for renewals, includes substantial health and death benefits:
- Healthcare: Up to GHC 2,000/year.
- Disability: Regular (GHC 96/week), Premium (GHC 206/week).
- Death Benefits: Regular (GHC 5,000), Premium (GHC 10,000).
Despite its intended benefits, the ANC card has sparked controversy among community members. Some argue that it overlaps with existing ID systems like Ghana’s Non-Citizen Card and Nigeria’s NIN. There are concerns about financial burden and redundancy.
One opinion stated:
“We already pay hundreds of dollars annually for work permits. Instead of introducing another card, the focus should be on reducing the high cost of work/residency permits. Let’s channel efforts toward meaningful reform.”
Others question the card’s effectiveness and transparency, urging ANC leadership to prioritize broader advocacy over internal bureaucracy.
To address lingering questions, the ANC leadership has called for a Town Hall Meeting and Summit, where Nigerians in Ghana will gather to deliberate and receive comprehensive information on the Welfare Card project.
“Let us prepare for a fruitful discussion at the Summit. All voices will be heard, and no concern will be left unaddressed,” the ANC leadership emphasized.
