Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger will officially withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) between January 29 and July 29, 2025, marking a significant shift in regional alliances.
The announcement was made by ECOWAS Commission President Alieu Touray during the bloc's 66th ordinary session of heads of state and government held in Abuja on Sunday.
The three nations, led by military governments, had earlier declared their intention to exit ECOWAS, accusing the organization of favoring the interests of France, their former colonial ruler. Before their announcement, the countries had been suspended from the bloc and subjected to sanctions, with Niger and Mali bearing the brunt of the punitive measures.
Touray explained that the phased timeline for their departure was designed to allow for final mediation efforts. However, the military-led governments have labeled their decision "irreversible," stating their commitment to pursuing an independent future for their people.
The announcement precedes a critical ECOWAS summit aimed at finding a resolution to retain the trio within the regional bloc. Despite these efforts, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger appear steadfast in their determination to carve out a new path outside the ECOWAS framework.
The exit of these nations could reshape regional dynamics, particularly in security and economic cooperation across West Africa.
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