FG launches ECOWAS biometric ID card to boost regional security

ENBIC aims to strengthen border management, ease travel, and improve identity verification across West Africa

The Federal Government has officially launched the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC) in Abuja, a move aimed at enhancing regional integration, improving identity management, and strengthening security across West Africa.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said the card represents the fulfilment of President Bola Tinubu’s vision for efficient border management and stronger regional security. “The card provides the foundation for more efficient identification across borders, a crucial component in combating insecurity,” he said.

The ENBIC rollout, which began 11 years ago, makes Nigeria the seventh ECOWAS member state to deploy the card, following Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, Ghana, Benin, The Gambia, and Sierra Leone. The card replaces the old handwritten ECOWAS Travel Certificate and serves as a regional ID, travel document, and residence permit for citizens of member states.

Equipped with an electronic chip storing biometric and biographical data, including fingerprints, photo, date, and place of birth, the card allows secure identity verification, reduces fraud, and facilitates smoother movement within the region.

Tunji-Ojo noted that the card will support legal migration, reduce irregular movements, and create economic opportunities. He added that plans are underway to integrate ENBIC into the Public Key Directory of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to allow seamless verification at all entry points.

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“The ENBIC will support intelligence gathering and provide security agencies with reliable data needed to protect citizens,” the minister said. He highlighted that Nigerians traveling within ECOWAS will no longer require international passports, easing movement for traders and small business owners.

Nigeria Immigration Service Comptroller-General, Kemi Nandap, described ENBIC as a landmark initiative that strengthens regional cooperation. She noted the benefits include enhanced security, improved border processing, safer travel, increased tourism and investment, and deeper regional integration.

The launch drew support from ECOWAS ambassadors, development partners including UN-IOM, EU, ICMPD, GIZ, UNIDO, security agencies, and the media.