Cotonou, Benin – Sierra Leone’s Chief Immigration Officer, Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the ECOWAS Heads of Immigration (HoI) Forum during its 9th annual meeting, held from October 14 to 16, 2025.
In his new role, Dr. Baio has committed to enhancing border management, facilitating the free movement of individuals, and supporting the implementation of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identification Card. The forum serves as a vital gathering for immigration officials from ECOWAS member countries, allowing for discussions on mobility, migration, and regional integration.
During his opening address, Dr. Baio noted the increasing intra-regional mobility driven by trade, socio-cultural dynamics, family connections, labor migration, and environmental factors. He emphasized the importance of the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement as essential for fostering economic cooperation among member states.
Dr. Baio relayed greetings from Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, who chairs the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State, and expressed appreciation to the President of Benin for hosting the event. He highlighted Sierra Leone’s successful implementation of the biometric ECOWAS identity card, officially launched by President Bio in 2023 and fully operational since 2024. Since January 2025, the Gbalamuya and Jendema border posts have reported 2,486 ECOWAS citizens utilizing the card to cross into Liberia and Guinea, which Dr. Baio encouraged other member states to emulate.
He reiterated that regional integration is not merely a political ambition but a crucial economic and social imperative. Dr. Baio urged his colleagues to perceive borders as gateways rather than barriers, fostering safe mobility, trade, and solidarity among nations. “When West Africans can move freely, safely, and lawfully, our economy flourishes, our cultures are enriched, and our unity strengthens,” he stated.
The annual HoI meeting reviews expert reports on border management and labor migration, assesses advancements related to the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card, identifies challenges, and pinpoints areas needing further technical assistance. The forum remains instrumental in promoting regional integration and socio-economic development throughout West Africa.
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