Accra, Feb 20, – Ghana has formally notified Togo of its decision to submit their protracted maritime boundary dispute to international arbitration under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP, Presidential Spokesperson and Minister of Government Communications, said the move follows eight years of bilateral negotiations that failed to produce agreement, risking escalation between state institutions.
"Ghana seeks to prevent further incidents creating tensions while promoting amicable resolution for continued good neighbourly relations," the statement explained.
The dispute intensified after offshore oil and gas discoveries in Ghana's coastal basins. Ghana upholds the equidistance principle per international law, while Togo seeks boundary adjustments citing historical and geographical factors.
Despite joint technical committees and diplomatic efforts, no settlement emerged. UNCLOS provides arbitration as a neutral mechanism for economic zone and continental shelf disputes.
Ghana's referral reaffirms commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, international law, and ECOWAS regional stability amid shared historical, cultural, and economic ties.
GHBUSS
20 February 2026
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