Official: Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger exit from regional bloc, ECOWAS reacts

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) confirmed on Wednesday that Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have officially exited the regional organization, following their withdrawal last year.

This move comes in the wake of a series of military coups that have affected several West African countries, many of which are now under military rule.

“The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali, and Republic of Niger has become effective today, 29th January 2025,” said ECOWAS in a statement.

The three nations had initially announced their decision to leave the bloc in January 2024 after ECOWAS demanded the restoration of democratic rule in Niger following a military coup in 2023. In response, the three countries formed the Alliance of Sahel States, a separate regional grouping, and launched their own biometric passports.

While acknowledging the departure, ECOWAS confirmed that the remaining member states agreed to maintain diplomatic relations, including recognizing national passports and identities bearing the bloc’s logo. Additionally, the trade agreements under existing regional frameworks will continue, allowing for ongoing cooperation.

In December 2024, ECOWAS gave the three breakaway nations a six-month grace period to reconsider their exit.

The organization stated that the interim arrangements will remain in place until further decisions are made by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government regarding future engagement with the three nations.