The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, has revealed that passport applications dropped by 20,000 year-on-year following a fee increase introduced by the previous administration.
He described the decision as harsh, noting that it negatively impacted local and overseas Ghanaians.
Addressing a large gathering of Ghanaians in Lagos, Nigeria, the minister assured the diaspora community that steps are being taken to reduce passport acquisition costs for Ghanaians abroad—just as was done for those in Ghana.
High passport fees emerged as a major concern during a community engagement session held at Ghana’s Consulate-General, where leaders of the Ghanaian community in Nigeria voiced their frustrations.
In response, the minister said, “We are conducting a comprehensive review of the Fees and Charges Act, and your concerns about passport fees will be taken into account.”
He also announced plans to collaborate with the National Identification Authority (NIA) to roll out registration services for Ghanaians abroad, helping ensure their inclusion in national systems.
Updating the community on recent developments in Ghana, the minister highlighted key policy changes, including the scrapping of the e-levy, betting tax, and emissions levy.
“I can assure you that the government is delivering on its promises,” he said.
The event marked the largest turnout for a government-diaspora engagement to date. The minister also expressed appreciation to Ghana’s Foreign Service Officers for their dedication to serving citizens at home and abroad.
