A new restriction policy was implemented by the Republic of Niger on Nigerians travelling with the ECOWAS passport, as they were refused entry.
This restriction came after Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, recently withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
While Niger maintains an open border with Nigeria, new immigration measures are being enforced at key border crossings, including Illela in Nigeria and Konni in Niger.
Cross-border traders and commuters are now facing significant challenges as the Nigerien authorities no longer recognise the ECOWAS passport as a valid travel document.
It was gathered that Niger Republic no longer recognise Nigerians holding the ECOWAS Travel Certificate (ETC) or ECOWAS passport while the Nigerian immigration authorities are yet to apply the same restrictions to Nigerien citizens.
As of now, no official decision has been taken by the Nigerian government or its immigration authority, neither has Niger Republic issued any statement or directive to bar ECOWAS passport or document holders.
The ECOWAS Travel Certificate (ETC) and ECOWAS passport are travel documents that allow holders to move freely among the member countries of ECOWAS.
