The Republic of Niger has introduced new immigration measures, requiring Nigerians traveling with ECOWAS passports to present a valid international passport for entry.
This decision follows Niger’s withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), alongside Mali and Burkina Faso. Despite keeping its borders open with Nigeria, Nigerien authorities have tightened controls at key border crossings, including Illela (Nigeria) and Konni (Niger). Cross-border traders and travelers are now facing difficulties, as border officials reportedly no longer recognize the ECOWAS passport as a valid travel document.
Alhaji Mansur Abdullah, a frequent cross-border trader, expressed concerns over the new regulations, suggesting that they might signal the gradual elimination of the ECOWAS passport as a recognized document. Many travelers, he noted, are being turned back at the border. Reports from Taiwan, a region in Niger, indicate that travelers without a Nigerien passport are consistently denied entry. Some sources claim that a new Nigerien passport is being introduced, adding to the confusion surrounding cross-border travel.
Meanwhile, Abubakar Isa, a commercial driver on the Illela-Konni route, alleged that Nigerien security officials are taking advantage of the situation by demanding bribes ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 CFA from travelers without the new passport. He further claimed that those without the proper documents are often taken to an office where they are pressured into paying bribes.
Despite the challenges, some traders insist that the situation has not yet severely disrupted trade. Alhaji Nuhu Abubakar, a trader in Illela, confirmed that business operations remain active, although rumors persist that the Nigerien military junta may soon impose restrictions on motorcycle movement between the two countries.
While there is no official ban on the ECOWAS passport, the new measures have left travelers uncertain about future cross-border trade and movement.
