Niger Republic has begun enforcing stricter entry regulations for Nigerians, as they are no longer accepting the ECOWAS passport as a valid travel document. Instead, Nigerian travelers are now required to present an international passport to gain entry.
This policy shift follows Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso’s withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), signaling a major change in regional travel dynamics. While land borders between Nigeria and Niger remain open, authorities at key crossings—such as Illela (Nigeria) and Konni (Niger)—have tightened immigration checks.
The new restrictions have disrupted cross-border movement, particularly for traders and daily commuters who have long relied on the ECOWAS passport for seamless travel.
A frequent trader, speaking to local media, confirmed the development; “It seems there is a plan to phase out the ECOWAS passport for travel. Authorities have started harassing travelers and turning some away at the border.”
Some travelers also claim that Niger has introduced a new national passport to replace the ECOWAS document, although official confirmation is yet to be provided.
Commercial drivers and traders have reported increased incidents of extortion by security officials at border checkpoints. According to a driver operating on the Illela-Konni route, authorities demand between 5,000 to 10,000 CFA before allowing travelers with an ECOWAS passport to pass. “If you don’t have Niger’s new identification document, they detain you at their office and pressure you to pay a bribe,” the driver alleged.
Despite the heightened travel restrictions, traders indicate that business operations at the border remain largely unaffected. However, continued policy uncertainty and stricter immigration enforcement could pose challenges for regional trade in the coming months.
