Niger has introduced stringent immigration regulations, now requiring Nigerians traveling with ECOWAS passports to also have a valid international passport to enter the country. This policy follows Niger’s withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a decision made in coordination with Mali and Burkina Faso.
Although the border with Nigeria remains open, immigration controls have been tightened at major crossing points like Illela (Nigeria) and Konni (Niger). Cross-border traders and travelers are facing significant difficulties as the ECOWAS passport is no longer accepted as a valid travel document.
Alhaji Mansur Abdullah, a frequent cross-border trader, expressed concern that these new restrictions might indicate a move to phase out the ECOWAS passport. Many traders are being turned away, and Abdullah mentioned rumors of a new passport being introduced to replace the ECOWAS passport, creating uncertainty about its impact on trade.
In the Taiwanese region of Niger, reports suggest that travelers with only ECOWAS passports are being denied entry, with border officials insisting on a Nigerien national passport. This has caused significant disruptions for traders and travelers.
Abubakar Isa, a commercial driver on the Illela-Konni route, claimed that Nigerien security officials are taking advantage of the situation by demanding bribes. Travelers lacking the new Nigerien passport are reportedly being asked to pay between 5,000 and 10,000 CFA to proceed, with those refusing being pressured into bribery at an office.
Despite these challenges, some traders believe the impact on cross-border trade has been minimal for now. Alhaji Nuhu Abubakar, a trader in Illela, mentioned that trade continues as usual, though he heard rumors that the Nigerien military junta might restrict motorcycle movement between the two countries, but nothing has been confirmed.
Although Niger has not officially banned the ECOWAS passport, travelers remain concerned that the situation could worsen, potentially disrupting trade and movement across the border.
