NIS begins biometric ID card issuance for ECOWAS travel

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Nigeria Immigration Service has commenced the issuance of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card to Nigerians, aimed at facilitating easier and more efficient movement across West Africa.

The development was disclosed by the Ondo State Command Public Relations Officer of the NIS, Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Michael Ikuseedun, at the command headquarters in Akure.

Ikuseedun said the biometric card would facilitate faster processing at regional borders and enable holders to access essential services, including health care, education and employment, in ECOWAS member states.

He added that the card would also serve as an official means of identification for Nigerians residing in other ECOWAS countries and further strengthen regional integration.

According to him, interested Nigerians can enrol for the card at any NIS office in the country or through Nigerian embassies and high commissions abroad.

Ikuseedun said the registration process was straightforward and that successful applicants were expected to receive their cards within a few days of completing enrolment.

However, he disclosed that only four people in Ondo State had so far enrolled and obtained the card, urging more residents to take advantage of the initiative.

He said the introduction of the ENBIC was part of efforts to modernise immigration operations, improve border management and promote the smoother movement of citizens across the ECOWAS region.