The Republic of Niger has imposed new restrictions on Nigerians traveling with the ECOWAS passport, barring entry for those using the regional travel document.

This move follows Niger’s recent withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) alongside Mali and Burkina Faso. While the country maintains an open border with Nigeria, new immigration measures are being enforced at key crossings, including Illela in Nigeria and Konni in Niger.

Cross-border traders and commuters now face major difficulties as Nigerien authorities no longer recognize the ECOWAS passport as a valid travel document.

Speaking anonymously, an immigration officer at the Jibia/Magama border in Katsina State confirmed that the ban took effect on Tuesday morning.

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

He also noted that Nigerian authorities have yet to impose similar restrictions on Nigerien citizens, awaiting further directives.

The ECOWAS Travel Certificate (ETC) and passport were designed to facilitate free movement among member states. However, with no official statement from Niger’s government, affected travelers fear escalating disruptions to trade and movement.

When contacted on Monday, Joel Ahofodji, Head of Communication at the ECOWAS Commission, stated that the regional body was unaware of Niger’s new policy.