The Influence of ECOWAS Trade Protocols on Informal Cross-Border Trade in Kebbi State

This research investigates the influence of ECOWAS trade protocols on informal cross-border trade in Kebbi State, which shares a significant border with the Republic of Niger. Informal cross-border trade remains a dominant economic activity in Nigeria's border communities, facilitated by ethnic ties, shared languages, and proximity to foreign markets. The study aims to assess the extent to which ECOWAS trade liberalisation policies have penetrated informal trade practices and whether they have induced a shift toward more formalised trading arrangements. A descriptive research design is employed, with primary data collected from 100 informal traders, border community leaders, and customs officials in Bagudo and Argungu local government areas using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis are applied to interpret findings. The theoretical framework draws on the new institutional economics perspective and informal economy theory. The study examines traders' awareness and utilisation of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, the ECOWAS Brown Card insurance system, and the ECOWAS passport, evaluating whether these instruments have reduced the cost of informal trading. Findings are anticipated to show that awareness of ECOWAS protocols among informal traders is minimal, and that informal channels are preferred due to their speed, flexibility, and avoidance of documentation burdens. The study recommends community-level trade facilitation programmes and simplification of formal cross-border documentation as measures to bridge the gap between ECOWAS policy frameworks and informal trade realities. Keywords: ECOWAS, informal trade, cross-border, Kebbi State, trade facilitation