The untold story that’s been shaping West Africa

Guardian Nigeria

Nigerians are migrating, but not only to Europe and America. Discover the powerful, untold story of West African migration, where vibrant communities and thriving commerce are flourishing right next door.   Beyond the headlines of distant dreams, many Nigerians are building lives, working, and trading across the West African coastline, from Benin to Cape Verde. They are the quiet drivers of regional economies, creating opportunities and fostering connections that often go unnoticed.   Despite the vision of free movement promised by ECOWAS, these movers and shakers face significant challenges. Border extortion, shifting policies, and red tape test their resilience daily.   This is a story of determination, trade, and the deep connections forged across borders. As we look afar, a vital African narrative is unfolding nearby, redefining regional integration and shaping economies. Why isn't this powerful story being told?   #WestAfricaMigration #AfricanTrade #RegionalIntegration #NigeriansInAfrica

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00:00When Nigerians talk about migration, we usually think of Jaguar to Europe or America.

00:06But there is another migration story happening much closer to home, along the West African coastline,

00:13from Béné Republic all the way to Kavrad.

00:16Many of the Nigerians are living, working, trading and building communities across the region.

00:21They are driving commerce, supporting local economies and creating opportunities

00:26that really makes the headlines. But the reality isn't always smart.

00:33Despite ECOWA's promises of free movement across West Africa,

00:38many still face border extortion, policy changes and bureaucratic hurdles.

00:43This is more than a migration story. The story of resilience, trade and the quiet determination

00:50of people within lives across borders. While we are busy looking into Europe and America,

00:56another powerful African story is unfolding right next door. One that is shaping economies,

01:02connecting communities and redefining what regional integration looks like.

01:07So we ask ourselves, why aren't we talking about it?

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