ECOWAS Faces Setback as Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso Officially Pull Out of Regional Bloc

The three military-led West African nations – Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso – have officially withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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

ECOWAS assured that passports and identity cards bearing its logo will remain valid for travel within the region.

Trade and economic activities will also proceed under the existing ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, allowing goods and services from the three countries to move freely.

“Allow citizens of the three affected countries to continue to enjoy the right of visa free movement, residence and establishment in accordance with the ECOWAS protocols until further notice,” it further said.

It also urged members to continue providing full support and cooperation to ECOWAS officials from the three countries in the course of their assignments for the community.

“These arrangements will be in place until the full determination of the modalities of our future engagement with the three countries by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.”