Niger Republic Blocks Nigerians with ECOWAS Passport

|By Adejumo Adekunle –

The Republic of Niger has begun strictly enforcing a ban on Nigerians traveling with the ECOWAS passport, denying entry to anyone without a valid international passport.

This drastic measure comes in the wake of Niger’s high-profile withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) alongside Mali and Burkina Faso.

Despite keeping its border with Nigeria open, Nigerien authorities have tightened immigration controls, particularly at key crossings like Illela (Nigeria) and Konni (Niger). The new restrictions have thrown cross-border trade into turmoil, stranding commuters and merchants as immigration officials refuse to acknowledge the ECOWAS passport as a legitimate travel document.

Alhaji Mansur Abdullah, a trader who frequently travels between the two nations, confirmed the escalating difficulties, stating that business operations have become increasingly frustrating under the new regulations.