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On the Foreign Scene
Report has it that the Republic of Niger has begun enforcing restrictions on Nigerians traveling with ECOWAS passports, barring entry for those without a valid international passport. This follows Niger’s recent withdrawal from ECOWAS alongside Mali and Burkina Faso.
Cross-border traders and travelers report being turned back at major crossings like Illela and Konni, with allegations of security officials extorting between 5,000 to 10,000 CFA from those without the new Nigerien passport.
Meanwhile, the ECOWAS Commission says it is unaware of any official policy barring ECOWAS passport holders. While trade and movement continue, concerns grow over potential future restrictions.