Sunyani (B/A), May 4, GNA - Nigeria's High Commissioner in Ghana Musiliu O. Obanikoro, has given assurance of his country's support to Clamp down on Nigerians who go contrary to the laws of Ghana. He expressed worry that numerous cases of armed robbery and drug peddling in Ghana were allegedly perpetrated by Nigerians. Mr. Obanikoro gave the assurance when he paid a courtesy call on Mr. Kwadwo Nyamekye-Marfo, Brong-Ahafo Regional Minister at the Residency in Sunyani on Monday.

The High Commissioner was in the region to interact with Nigerian residents and to get acquainted with their economic activities. He will also visit Wa and Bolgatanga, capitals of Upper West and Upper East regions respectively.

Mr. Obanikoro explained that Nigeria recognised Ghana as the most important transit point or route to Nigeria because of its leadership qualities in so many areas.

"Ghana is respected on the African continent and also across the Globe, more especially because of the success of the recent general election", he said.

Mr. Nyamekye-Marfo thanked the ambassador for the visit, which he said would strengthen the cordial relationship between the two countries.

He said the region was bestowed with abundant natural resources that could be tapped and stressed the need to remove barriers and attract investors more especially, from Nigeria to the benefit of both countries.

Mr. Nyamekye-Marfo assured the High Commissioner of the Regional Coordinating Council's resolve to help smother any form of intra-Nigerian conflict to promote the welfare of the people. The High Commissioner also paid a similar call on the Sunyani Traditional Council and stressed the need for both Nigeria and Ghana to work together to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of both countries.

Nana Bosoma Asor Nkrawiri II, Omanhene of Sunyani said the growth of the economy of the sub-region and for that matter, the Economic Community of West African State (ECOWAS) depended much on the efforts of Ghana and Nigeria.

While admonishing Nigerian residents to be law abiding and respect authority, the High Commissioner advised them to form associations and contribute their quota to flush out the "few bad Nigerians" whose activities had spoiled the image of Nigeria. "Our population is more than 140 million and that we cannot sit down unconcern for the bad nuts among us to expose us to international ridicule and disrepute", Mr. Obanikoro added. 04 May 09