Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger Formally Withdraw From ECOWAS
Following the expiration of the mandatory one-year notice, Burkina Faso, Republic of Mali, and the Republic of Niger on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, formally withdrew their membership of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
This was as ECOWAS officially acknowledged the exit of the three countries from the regional body, saying however, that it has not kept its doors fully shut by allowing the former members to enjoy some membership benefits.
A statement by ECOWAS Commission on Wednesday, explained that the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger from ECOWAS has become effective today, 29th January 2025.
According to ECOWAS; “However, in the spirit of regional solidarity and in the interest of the people, as well as the decision of the ECOWAS Authority to keep ECOWAS’ doors open, all relevant authorities within and outside ECOWAS Member States are requested and required to: a) recognize national passports and identity cards bearing ECOWAS logo
held by the citizens of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali, and the Republic of Niger, until further notice.
“b) continue to treat goods and services coming from the three countries in accordance with the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.
“c) 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.
“d) provide full support and cooperation to ECOWAS officials from the three countries in the course of their assignments for the Community,” the regional body said.
ECOWAS further said that the arrangements will be in place until the full determination of the modalities of its future engagement with the three countries by the ECOWAS
Authority of Heads of State and Government.
Accordingly, the Commission announced the setting up of a
structure to facilitate discussions on the modalities with each of the three countries.
The statement further explained that the message became necessary to avoid confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of the people during the transition period.
