The federal government has introduced the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Cards (ENBIC) to support ease of business, strengthen economic growth, and improve security across the sub-region.
The project, initiated by the Nigeria Immigration Service, has been completed 11 years after its initial conception. With this development, Nigeria joins six other ECOWAS countries that have already implemented the initiative in line with regional protocols aimed at addressing security challenges and enhancing economic cooperation.
The project had been on hold for over a decade, but officials said renewed effort under the current administration enabled its completion. During the unveiling in Abuja, the Minister of Interior described the card as a major shift in Nigeria’s approach to border control and identity verification. He stated that although the project could have been completed earlier, it was stalled by insufficient political will.
He noted that the president insisted on its delivery and that the new card will greatly enhance intelligence gathering, reduce document fraud, and curb irregular migration within West Africa. The biometric system will also link with global public key directories and ease pressure on the Nigerian passport by offering an alternative for regional travel.
He explained that anyone travelling within ECOWAS will not need a passport, as the card will serve as a valid means of movement. He also said the initiative aligns with recent reforms, including the deployment of the Advanced Passenger Information System, which enables authorities to process traveller information before arrival. According to him, the government chose to address issues directly instead of making excuses.
The minister further announced that the Nigeria Immigration Service will launch the Single Travel Emergency Passport in January to assist stranded Nigerians who need to return home.
Speaking for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Permanent Secretary said the project reflects Nigeria’s long-standing leadership role within ECOWAS. He recalled that the concept for the biometric travel card was first developed at an ECOWAS summit in Nigeria in 2014. He added that the successful rollout represents shared political commitment and shows what West African nations can achieve through unity and a focus on collective security.
He described the card as a tool of empowerment for small business owners, protection for migrant women, and a means of opening economic opportunities for millions across the region. He called on ECOWAS member states to harmonise their databases to establish a unified identity system and encouraged fintech companies to build services and innovations around the new platform.
