The Republic of Niger has introduced strict immigration measures, now requiring Nigerians travelling with ECOWAS passports to possess a valid international passport to enter the country.
This move comes after Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Although the border between Niger and Nigeria remains open, immigration controls have been significantly tightened at key border crossings, including Illela (Nigeria) and Konni (Niger).
Cross-border traders and travellers are now facing challenges, as Nigerien authorities no longer accept the ECOWAS passport as a valid travel document.
Alhaji Mansur Abdullah, a regular cross-border trader, expressed concerns about the new restrictions, fearing that the ECOWAS passport could eventually be phased out as a valid travel document.
Many traders are reportedly being turned away at the border. Abdullah also mentioned that a new passport is being issued to replace the ECOWAS passport, which has left many uncertain about the potential impact on trade and business activities.
In the region of Taiwan, Niger, travellers with only ECOWAS passports have been denied entry, with border officials insisting on a Nigerien national passport for entry.
This has created significant difficulties for traders and travellers alike.
Abubakar Isa, a commercial driver on the Illela-Konni route, alleged that Nigerien security officials are taking advantage of the situation, demanding bribes ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 CFA from travellers without the new Nigerien passport.
Despite these issues, some traders, like Alhaji Nuhu Abubakar from Illela, maintain that their trade activities continue as usual, with no signs of a full border closure.
However, rumours persist that the Nigerien military junta might soon impose restrictions on motorcycle movement between the two countries, though nothing official has been confirmed.
While Niger has not formally banned the ECOWAS passport, travellers remain anxious about the potential escalation of these measures, which could disrupt cross-border trade and movement.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
