ECOWAS inspects Nigeria–Cameroon border post to boost trade and mobility

Africa, Business

CALABAR, Nigeria (NPA) — The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched a strategic monitoring and inspection mission at the Ekok/Mfum joint border post between Nigeria and Cameroon, aimed at strengthening regional integration and improving cross‑border trade.

The mission, which runs from May 18 to 22, 2026, is led by Dr. Ashoke Maliki, Head of Roads and Railways Service at the ECOWAS Transport Directorate, on behalf of Mr. Chris Appiah, Director of Transport. According to ECOWAS, the team is assessing the operational efficiency of the border post, reviewing customs clearance times, and examining compliance with regional protocols on the free movement of people, goods, and services.

Officials say the inspection will help identify bottlenecks hindering trade and transport, while engaging border agencies and stakeholders to develop recommendations for greater efficiency, security, and fluidity along the corridor.

The Ekok/Mfum border post, strategically located on the Nigeria–Cameroon frontier, serves as a vital transit hub linking West Africa and Central Africa, making it a key focus for ECOWAS’ regional integration agenda.