The withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has significantly impacted the travel privileges of Nigerian passport holders, reducing the number of visa-free destinations available within the region.
The strength of a passport is often measured by the number of countries its holders can access without requiring a visa. With these three nations exiting the regional bloc, the Nigerian passport has weakened in global rankings, limiting its holders’ mobility.
In a joint statement, the three countries accused ECOWAS of straying from its founding principles, alleging that the regional body has become a tool of foreign influence and a threat to member states. They criticized ECOWAS for failing to support their fight against terrorism and insecurity while imposing what they described as ‘illegal, illegitimate, inhumane, and irresponsible sanctions.’
In response, the Republic of Niger has started imposing travel restrictions on Nigerians holding the ECOWAS passport, denying entry to those without valid international passports. Despite maintaining open borders with Nigeria, stricter immigration measures are now being enforced at key border crossings, including Illela (Nigeria) and Konni (Niger). This has disrupted cross-border trade and movement, with many commuters and business operators facing new hurdles as the ECOWAS passport is no longer recognized as a valid form of identification.
Aviation and travel sector experts warn that Mali and Burkina Faso may adopt similar measures, further limiting the ease of travel for Nigerian passport holders. According to the Africa Visa Openness Index, which tracks visa policies across the continent, Nigerian travelers currently enjoy visa-free access to 17 countries, including Benin, Cameroon, Ghana, Guinea, Senegal, and Seychelles. However, if Mali and Burkina Faso implement restrictions similar to those of Niger, the number of visa-free destinations for Nigerians will drop to 14, further diminishing the passport’s strength.
Seyi Adewale, CEO of Mainstream Cargo Limited, expressed concerns over the impact of these developments, particularly on tourism, trade, and economic ties between Nigeria and its neighbors.
“To restrict Nigerians’ access to neighboring countries, especially Niger, is frustrating given the longstanding historical and economic ties we share,” Adewale remarked. “For manufacturers and exporters, this withdrawal disrupts the free flow of goods and services. However, we will have to wait and see what policies and new regulations these countries implement moving forward.”
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders in trade, travel, and diplomacy will closely monitor how these geopolitical shifts shape Nigeria’s engagement within West Africa and beyond.
