where does the AES passport issuance process stand in the west african region?

The AES passport project, launched within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), aims to replace the Cédéao passport in the West African region. However, progress in issuance and delivery varies significantly from one country to another.

the three AES founding countries: different issuance speeds

Officially introduced in 2025 across the Alliance of Sahel States member countries—Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—this biometric passport is designed to enhance regional integration and strengthen border security.

Niger: still waiting for the AES passport

Recent passport applicants in Niger have noticed something unusual: their new passports still bear the Cédéao logo. According to a Nigerien in the diaspora, he expected to receive an AES passport marked with the alliance’s symbol, but instead, the Cédéao logo appeared on his document.

A second Nigerien, who chose to remain anonymous, shared the same observation.