Niger Republic bars Nigerians from entering with ECOWAS passport

The Republic of Niger has implemented new restrictions on Nigerians traveling with the ECOWAS passport, refusing entry to those without a valid international passport.

This move follows Niger’s recent withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), alongside Mali and Burkina Faso.

While Niger maintains an open border with Nigeria, immigration measures are now being enforced at key crossings such as Illela (Nigeria) and Konni (Niger). Cross-border traders and commuters are facing difficulties as Nigerien authorities no longer recognize the ECOWAS passport as valid for entry.

Alhaji Mansur Abdullah, a regular trader between the two countries, confirmed these changes, noting that there is growing concern among travelers. “They have started harassing us when we try to enter the country. Some people are being turned back,” he said. “We’ve heard that a new passport is being issued to replace the ECOWAS passport for travel to Niger.”

The new restrictions are affecting businesses and trading activities. A source from Taiwan, a state in Niger Republic, also confirmed that border officials are turning people away if they are relying on the ECOWAS passport. “The authorities insist on their own national passport, making it difficult for traders and travelers,” the source explained.

Commercial driver Abubakar Isa, who operates the Illela-Konni route, alleged that security officials in Niger are exploiting the situation by extorting travelers. “They demand between 5,000 to 10,000 CFA to allow those with ECOWAS passports to pass. If you don’t have the new Niger identification document, they take you to their office and force you to pay a bribe.”

Alhaji Nuhu Abubakar, a trader in Illela, stated that despite these challenges, trade and movement across the border have not been significantly impacted yet. “We’ve continued our normal activities, and the border remains open on both sides. There are rumors that the military junta in Niger might restrict motorcycle movement, but for now, nothing has been confirmed,” he said.

Although there has been no official confirmation from the Nigerien government about a complete ban on ECOWAS passports, the situation remains tense, and travelers are concerned that it could disrupt trade and mobility across the border. ECOWAS Commission Head of Communication, Joel Ahofodji, stated that the regional bloc was unaware of Niger’s policy on restricting ECOWAS passport holders.