The federal government has launched the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC), a digital identity card aimed at improving border security, reducing illegal migration and making travel within West Africa easier.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja on Friday, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said the card will modernise identity management and strengthen cooperation among ECOWAS member states.
He said the project moved forward after President Bola Tinubu ordered faster delivery of the long-delayed initiative.
Tunji-Ojo explained that the card will improve border control and intelligence sharing, and can also serve as a travel document within the ECOWAS region.
“If you are travelling only within ECOWAS, you no longer need a passport. This card is sufficient for all regional travel,” he said.
He added that the card will reduce pressure on Nigerian passports and support safer, more organised regional movement.
The minister linked the launch to other reforms, such as the Advanced Passenger Information System and the planned introduction of a Single Travel Emergency Passport for stranded Nigerians from January.
Representing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma, said the card reflects Nigeria’s commitment to regional integration.
He noted that the technical structure for the project was approved at an ECOWAS summit in 2014.
He described the card as a tool that supports migrant workers, cross-border traders and stronger regional cooperation, and called on member states to speed up implementation and align their identity systems.
Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, said the new card replaces the old paper travel certificate and uses advanced biometric and cryptographic technology that meets ECOWAS and international standards.
She said it will improve identity verification, reduce document fraud, and help disrupt cross-border criminal networks, while also promoting trade, tourism, and labour movement.
ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray praised Nigeria’s leadership and said the rollout is part of wider plans to build a regional biometric identity system for safer and more efficient movement across West Africa.
