ECOWAS Expects Return of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Despite Withdrawal Plans

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has voiced confidence that Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger may eventually return to the organization, despite their decision to withdraw by January 2025.

At an event marking ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary in Nigeria, Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar described democratic governance as a long-term process. While acknowledging the exit of the three countries, he stressed that this should not detract from the bloc’s overall achievements.

ECOWAS President Omar Alieu Touray also reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to regional cooperation, stating that efforts to maintain unity would continue even without the participation of the departing member states.

Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger officially announced their intention to leave ECOWAS in January 2024. The move came after a series of military coups and growing dissatisfaction with ECOWAS sanctions and external influence in domestic affairs. The three countries have since formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a regional bloc focused on political and security cooperation.

The AES, established in 2023, has since deepened its integration. In July 2024, the alliance formed a confederation, launched a joint defense initiative involving a 5,000-member regional force, introduced a shared passport system, and created a regional media platform.

Despite these developments, ECOWAS has proposed a six-month transition period from January to July 2025 to leave open the possibility of renewed dialogue and eventual reintegration.Attach