The History and Meaning Behind “Ghana Must Go"

The term “Ghana Must Go” refers to a significant event in West African history that occurred in 1983, when Nigeria expelled over two million undocumented immigrants, mostly Ghanaians, from its territory. This mass deportation was driven by Nigeria's economic downturn, unemployment crisis, and rising social tensions during the early 1980s.

During the 1970s, Nigeria experienced an oil boom, attracting migrants from across West Africa, particularly Ghana, which at the time was grappling with economic hardship, military coups, and inflation. Ghanaians migrated in large numbers to Nigeria in search of better opportunities. However, when global oil prices collapsed in the early 1980s, Nigeria's economy declined rapidly. Public sentiment turned against foreign workers, whom many locals blamed for the scarcity of jobs and social services.

In response, the Nigerian government ordered the expulsion of undocumented immigrants. Ghanaians were given a short notice to leave, leading to chaotic scenes at borders and transportation hubs. Many used large, checkered plastic bags to carry their belongings—these bags became iconic and were later nicknamed “Ghana Must Go” bags.

Today, the bags are found across West Africa and symbolize both resilience and the socio-political tensions of the past. While the phrase originally carried negative connotations, it now serves as a cultural reference point and a reminder of Africa’s interconnected history.