French as a Tool for Economic Integration: Perceptions of Nigerian Traders in the ECOWAS Sub-Region

The Economic Community of West African States presents Nigerian traders with significant cross-border commercial opportunities, yet language barriers with predominantly francophone member states remain a practical constraint on full economic participation. This study examines the perceptions of Nigerian traders at Seme border market in Lagos State regarding French as a tool for economic integration within the ECOWAS sub-region. A qualitative research design was employed, using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 85 traders who regularly engage in cross-border commerce with Benin Republic and other francophone neighbours. Data were analysed using thematic analysis, with emerging themes organised around communication challenges, economic consequences of language barriers, and attitudes toward French language learning. Findings reveal that most traders rely on informal interpreters, code-switching, or trade pidgins to conduct transactions, and perceive unmediated French communication as a competitive advantage they currently lack. Economic losses attributed to miscommunication and dependency on interpreters were reported by 74% of respondents. Attitudes toward formal French language training were strongly positive, though time constraints and cost were cited as barriers to participation. The study argues that targeted short-course French language programmes tailored to commercial contexts should be integrated into the activities of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council and relevant trade associations. Policy recommendations include bilingual signage at border markets and subsidised language training for border community traders. Keywords: French language, economic integration, ECOWAS, cross-border trade, Nigeria