The Story Behind 'Ghana Must Go': Lessons in History and UNITY
By: Chimdindu Ken-Anaukwu
In 1983, the streets of Nigeria and Ghana echoed with a phrase that would become both a marker of history and a symbol of migration in West Africa: Ghana Must Go. What started as a policy decision in Nigeria unraveled into a socio-political moment that shaped relations between two neighboring giants, teaching us about migration, identity, and the enduring human spirit.
The Context: A Boom, a Bust, and Migration
In the 1970s, Nigeria experienced an oil boom, attracting migrants from across Africa, including Ghanaians, who sought better opportunities. With an influx of workers, the Nigerian economy initially thrived, but by the early 1980s, the tides had turned. A global recession, plummeting oil prices, and mismanagement left Nigeria grappling with economic hardship.
The tipping point came in 1983 when the Nigerian government, under President Shehu Shagari, enacted a directive ordering undocumented immigrants—many of whom were Ghanaians—to leave the country. An estimated 2 million people were expelled in a dramatic exodus, marked by chaos and heartbreak.
Why 'Ghana Must Go'?
The phrase “Ghana Must Go” originated from the cheap, checkered bags that many Ghanaians used to pack their belongings during their abrupt departure. These bags, now iconic, came to symbolize forced migration, resilience, and the unexpected ways human stories become immortalized in everyday objects.
The Human Cost
The expulsion was a humanitarian crisis. Families were uprooted, livelihoods destroyed, and relationships strained. Border towns overflowed with people, and neighboring countries scrambled to accommodate the displaced. Yet, amid the turmoil, communities demonstrated resilience, finding ways to rebuild their lives.
A Reciprocal History
Interestingly, the history of migration between Nigeria and Ghana is cyclical. In the 1960s, during Ghana’s economic downturn, many Nigerians were expelled from Ghana. The Ghana Must Go episode serves as a reminder of the fluid nature of migration and the interconnectedness of African nations.
Lessons for Today
1. Unity Over Division: The event underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing economic and social challenges. Organizations like ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) emerged with the goal of fostering such unity.
2. Resilience and Adaptability: The iconic "Ghana Must Go" bag has transcended its origin, becoming a symbol of African creativity and resilience. Today, it’s used globally and represents the ability to adapt in the face of adversity.
3. Migration as a Shared Story: African migration has always been about opportunity, community, and survival. The stories of those affected by Ghana Must Go remind us of our shared humanity.
Cultural Resonance Today
From Nollywood movies to fashion, the phrase Ghana Must Go lives on in popular culture, sparking conversations about history and identity. It serves as a touchstone for reflection on how far we’ve come and the work that remains in fostering understanding between African nations.
A Shared Path Forward
As we look back on Ghana Must Go, it’s clear that history has much to teach us about compassion, policy-making, and the enduring strength of communities. By learning from the past, we can forge stronger bonds across borders and celebrate the shared heritage that unites us.
P.S. Ever spotted a Ghana Must Go bag in your local market? It’s more than just a bag—it’s a story of migration, resilience, and a shared African journey.