The military-led governments of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have officially withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), marking the culmination of a year-long standoff with the regional bloc.
ECOWAS confirmed the departure in a statement on Wednesday, acknowledging that its efforts to persuade the three nations to reconsider had been unsuccessful. Despite this, the bloc emphasized that its “door remains open” should any of the countries decide to return in the future.
“The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger from ECOWAS has become effective today, 29th January 2025,”
“These arrangements will be in place until the full determination of the modalities of our future engagement with the three countries of by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government,” the statement reads
The withdrawal follows months of strained relations, with the juntas in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso accusing ECOWAS of failing to support them in their fight against terrorism while imposing sanctions that they argue have worsened economic hardships for their populations.
The three nations first announced their intent to leave in early 2024 and have since rejected calls from ECOWAS to reverse their decision. The move signals a major shift in West Africa’s geopolitical landscape, raising concerns about regional stability and economic cooperation.
Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger are now united in a confederation called the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
Meanwhile, thousands of people rallied on Tuesday in Niger and Burkina Faso in support of the withdrawal of their countries from the Economic Community of West African States.
Radio Nigeria
