By Omar Bah
The 8th Heads of Immigration Meeting of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) took place in The Gambia. The meeting aimed to expedite the implementation of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC) and address the recent repeal of the 90-day stay limit for Community Citizens within member states.
In West Africa, internal migration is significant, and the unrestricted movement of people is vital for regional integration and participation in the global economy. Despite adopting the three-phased Protocol on Free Movement between 1979 and 1990, the implementation of the ENBIC has encountered challenges such as political will, funding, and infrastructure deficits. Only six member states—Senegal, Guinea Bissau, Ghana, Benin, The Gambia, and Sierra Leone—have deployed the ENBIC, while others are at different stages of readiness.
During the meeting, there was a strong emphasis on the need for collaborative efforts among member states to address migration challenges and bolster border management. Key presentations highlighted the necessity of effectively implementing the ENBIC, the advantages of abolishing the 90-day stay limit, and the creation of a comprehensive roadmap for deeper integration.
Mr. Ebirma Mboob, Director General of the Gambian Immigration Department, inaugurated the ceremony, underscoring the unwavering commitment to achieving the free movement of persons. Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service, shed light on the practical challenges encountered in implementing migration protocols and reaffirmed the commitment to overcoming these challenges.
The meeting produced several urgent recommendations, including enhancing the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) for improved data sharing among immigration authorities, establishing a comprehensive e-registration database for effective migration management, intensifying public awareness campaigns on migration issues and the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol, and forming a Technical Working Group to oversee the implementation of discussed initiatives. The meeting concluded with a commitment to facilitate the establishment of a unified Africa through enhanced cooperation among Member States.
