Niger Republic Rejects ECOWAS Passport, Blocks Nigerian Travelers

• Niger has imposed new restrictions on Nigerians using ECOWAS passports, requiring valid international passports for entry, causing significant travel difficulties

• Despite maintaining open borders, Nigerien authorities are enforcing stricter immigration measures, leading to reports of harassment and extortion at crossings

The Republic of Niger has imposed new restrictions on Nigerians traveling with the ECOWAS passport, barring their entry into the country.

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

Although Niger’s border with Nigeria remains open, immigration authorities have begun enforcing stricter measures at key crossings, including Illela in Nigeria and Konni in Niger.

Cross-border traders and commuters are experiencing major difficulties as Nigerien officials no longer recognize the ECOWAS passport as a valid travel document.

An immigration officer at the Jibia/Magama Border in Katsina State, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that the enforcement began on Tuesday morning.

“They no longer recognize Nigerians traveling into Niger Republic using the ECOWAS Travel Certificate (ETC) or ECOWAS passport,” he said.

He added that Nigerian immigration authorities have not yet reciprocated the restriction for Nigerien citizens, awaiting further directives from higher authorities.

The ECOWAS Travel Certificate (ETC) and passport allow free movement across ECOWAS member states. However, the new restrictions from Niger could severely impact trade and travel along the border.

As of now, there has been no official statement from the Nigerien government regarding the policy. Meanwhile, affected travelers fear worsening disruptions.

When contacted on Monday, the Head of Communication at the ECOWAS Commission, Joel Ahofodji, stated that the regional bloc was unaware of Niger Republic’s move to block ECOWAS passport holders.