Enhancing Macroeconomic Resilience: A Comparative Analysis of Nigeria and Ghana

Enhancing Macroeconomic Resilience: A Comparative Analysis of Nigeria and Ghana
Image: Getty, Pius Utomi Ekpei/AFP

While Nigeria and Ghana have significant economic interlinkages and have therefore displayed some similarities, there are also evident divergences in their responses to economic shocks.

Summary:

  • Nigeria and Ghana have experienced a range of economic shocks over the past two decades, including natural disasters, commodity-price fluctuations, financial crises and global economic downturns.
  • These shocks have significantly impacted the economic stability and growth prospects of both countries, emphasising the importance of developing effective resilience strategies.
  • Nigeria and Ghana have implemented monetary and fiscal measures in response to various crises.
  • Each country’s economic landscape is influenced by unique factors, necessitating tailored approaches to bolster macroeconomic resilience.
  • Debt sustainability is a concern for both countries. Nigeria’s external debt increased due to oil-price fluctuations, while Ghana’s public debt has steadily risen, raising concerns about a potential default and necessitating debt restructuring.
  • Lessons drawn from these challenges and opportunities can serve as valuable insights for the shaping of future strategies aimed at enhancing macroeconomic resilience, ultimately ensuring sustained growth and stability.
The views expressed in this publication/article are those of the author/s and do not necessarily reflect the views of the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA).

10 Feb 2024