The Federal Government has formally flagged off the introduction of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC), as parts of efforts to combat cross-border crimes, false documentation and irregular migration within the West Africa sub region.
During the launch on Friday in Abuja, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed that the project is the backbone of a modern identity and security system designed to transform border control and intelligence gathering.
The Minister said the project is part of ongoing reforms in the nation’s travel and border framework, including the deployment of the UN-mandated Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS) in 2024, which grants authorities early visibility of inbound travellers, saying the activation of the security biometric card signals “a powerful new beginning” as it will facilitate regional mobility and security cooperation in the region.
“It is unlike the Nigerian standard, which is why this delay was unusual.
“The good news is that President Tinubu pushed for action, and today the promise has become reality. This is what leadership looks like — not talk, but delivery,” he said.
The minister explained that ENBIC work in alignment with international public infrastructures like ICAO systems, by removing pressure on passport demand, especially for movement within West Africa.
“If you are travelling only within ECOWAS, you no longer need a passport. This card is sufficient for all regional travel,” he said.
Already, he disclosed readiness of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to introduce the Single Travel Emergency Passport (STEP) in January, 2026, to help stranded citizens wishing to return home.
“With ENBIC, Nigeria is not only strengthening its borders but reaffirming its leadership in a region seeking safer mobility, deeper integration and a digitally driven future.”
On his part, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, said the launch is a testament to the Federal Government of Nigeria to regional collaboration and cohesion.
Akume, who spoke through the Permanent Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, recalled that the technical blueprint for the biometric card was adopted at an ECOWAS summit hosted in Abuja in 2014, describing the card as a tool of dignity for migrant women, an enabler for cross-border traders and a promise of a West Africa where borders become bridges of opportunities.
“In our hands is a simple card, but in our hearts lies a profound hope,” he said
He called on other ECOWAS member states to hasten up on deployment of the card towards a fully regional identity system.
The Secretary to the Government equally tasked the private sector, especially fintech innovators, to come up with innovative ideas to drive inclusion and digital growth in the region.
The Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kem iNandap said that the initiative is historic and technologically significant, saying ENBIC replaces the old paper-based travel certificate built on advanced biometric and cryptographic architecture in line with ECOWAS and ICAO standards.
“Its biometric core — anchored on high-quality facial and fingerprint data, provides a secure link between the holder and the credential.
“It will strengthen verification processes, reduce document fraud and disrupt the operations of cross-border criminal networks. It is a foundational tool for a more secure, integrated region,” she noted.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, hailed Nigeria for the feat saying is a testament to the country’s leadership role in the African sub region.
Touray, who spoke through a representative, alerted that ECOWAS forces have been currently deployed to Guinea-Bissau to stabilise the situation .
(Independent)
