Economic Migration and Host Community Conflict: The Dynamics of Nigerian Migrants in Ghanaian Cities

This study examines the socioeconomic dynamics of Nigerian migrant communities in major Ghanaian cities, particularly Accra and Kumasi, analysing the sources of inter-community tensions and the diplomatic management of migration-related frictions in Nigeria-Ghana bilateral relations. Nigeria and Ghana have a complex migration relationship shaped by the history of ECOWAS free movement, periodic expulsion episodes, and persistent commercial rivalries between Nigerian and Ghanaian traders. Drawing on social identity theory and bilateral migration diplomacy frameworks, this research investigates the factors contributing to host community tensions involving Nigerian migrants in Ghana from 2019 to 2024, examining the policy responses of both governments and the role of ECOWAS dispute resolution mechanisms. The study employs a qualitative methodology, combining semi-structured interviews with Nigerian migrant community leaders in Accra and Ghana Immigration Service officials, with document analysis of bilateral commission communiques and ECOWAS mediation records. The research pays particular attention to the retail trade sector, which has been a primary flashpoint for Nigerian-Ghanaian commercial disputes. Findings are expected to show that inter-community tensions are driven by commercial competition and regulatory discrimination rather than ethnic animosity, with bilateral diplomatic channels managing but not resolving underlying structural grievances. Keywords: migration diplomacy, Nigeria-Ghana, ECOWAS, host community, migrant traders.