
Faith Nyasuguta
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has confirmed the official exit of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the regional bloc. The announcement, made on Wednesday, follows their withdrawal last year after ECOWAS pressured Niger to restore democratic rule.
West Africa has witnessed a wave of military takeovers in recent years, with multiple countries in the 15-member bloc falling under military rule. ECOWAS stated that the withdrawal of the three Sahel nations became effective on January 29, 2025.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger initially declared their departure in January 2024, citing dissatisfaction with ECOWAS’ stance on military-led governments. The bloc had imposed sanctions and called for a swift return to civilian rule, particularly in Niger, where a 2023 coup ousted the democratically elected president. Instead of complying, the three nations forged a new alliance, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), positioning themselves as an alternative regional force.

Since breaking away, the Sahel Alliance has taken steps to consolidate its independence, including launching its own biometric passports. However, ECOWAS has opted for a measured approach in response. In its Wednesday statement, the bloc revealed that while the three nations are no longer members, some agreements will remain in place to facilitate cooperation.
Key measures include:
–Recognizing national passports and identity documents bearing the ECOWAS logo
–Continuing trade under existing regional agreements
–Maintaining diplomatic engagement with the three countries
ECOWAS had previously given Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger a six-month grace period to reconsider their departure, but the trio has remained firm in their decision.

“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,” the statement read.
The departure of these states marks a major development in West Africa’s political and economic dynamics. The Alliance of Sahel States aims to chart a new path, free from ECOWAS’ influence, while the regional bloc seeks to balance diplomacy with maintaining its authority.
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