The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially acknowledged the departure of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the bloc, effective January 29, 2025, following the expiration of the mandatory one-year notice period.
Despite their exit, ECOWAS has urged member states to continue recognising passports from the three nations bearing the bloc’s logo, maintain trade and investment policies under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, and uphold visa-free movement and residency rights for their citizens.
The three Sahel states, led by military juntas, announced their withdrawal in January 2024, accusing ECOWAS of excessive alignment with France.
Their departure has fractured the regional alliance, prompting them to form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and forge closer ties with Russia, Turkey, and Iran.
In Niamey, Niger, thousands gathered in support of the withdrawal, led by military officials.
ECOWAS has assured ongoing dialogue with the three nations to determine future engagements, while the political and economic implications of their exit remain uncertain.