The Republic of Niger has begun enforcing new entry restrictions on Nigerians traveling with ECOWAS passports, barring those without a valid international passport from entering the country.
This decision follows Niger’s recent withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) alongside Mali and Burkina Faso. Despite keeping its border with Nigeria open, authorities have tightened immigration controls at key crossings like Illela (Nigeria) and Konni (Niger), creating difficulties for cross-border traders and commuters.
Alhaji Mansur Abdullah, a frequent traveler between the two nations, confirmed the new measures.
“I believe they are phasing out the ECOWAS passport for travel here. Some of our people are being harassed and even turned back. We’ve heard that a new passport is now required for entry into Niger,” he said.
According to sources in Niger, border officials have begun rejecting travelers using only ECOWAS passports, insisting on Niger’s national passport.
Commercial drivers on the Illela-Konni route allege that security officials are exploiting the situation by demanding bribes of 5,000 to 10,000 CFA from those without the required documents.
“They stop vehicles, take travelers to their office, and pressure them to pay bribes before letting them through,” said Abubakar Isa, a transport operator.
However, trade and movement at the border remain largely unaffected for now. Illela-based trader Alhaji Nuhu Abubakar stated that business continues as usual, with no signs of an impending border closure.
“We’ve heard rumors that Niger’s military junta may restrict motorcycle movement, but nothing official has been confirmed,” he said.
Despite growing concerns, the Nigerien government has yet to issue a formal statement on the policy, and ECOWAS officials claim they are unaware of the new restrictions.
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