West African Nations Take a Step Forward in Border Management and Integration

Kemi Nandap, the Comptroller-General of Nigeria Immigration Service, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Heads of Immigration Forum. This milestone was achieved during a recent meeting in Banjul, Gambia, where 13 member states came together to address migration and mobility challenges.

The meeting focused on accelerating the implementation of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC) and abolishing the 90-day stay limit/residence permits for community citizens. ENBIC aims to replace the ECOWAS Travel Certificate and Residence Permit, facilitating easier movement, residence, and business across the region without compromising national security.

In her remarks, Nandap emphasized the need for expedited policy implementation to foster regional integration and socio-economic progress. While acknowledging the strides made so far, she highlighted current challenges such as irregular migration, human trafficking, and border security concerns, which have been exacerbated by expansive borders.

Nandap called for a coordinated and harmonized approach to border management and immigration practices across the region to ensure both security and the protection of citizens’ rights. Her appointment as Chairperson of the ECOWAS Heads of Immigration Forum signals a significant step forward in addressing these challenges and promoting regional integration in West Africa.