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West African Bloc Faces Uncertainty As Three Nations Officially Exit ECOWAS

West African Bloc Faces Uncertainty As Three Nations Officially Exit ECOWAS
  • PublishedJanuary 29, 2025

 

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is facing a fresh wave of uncertainty following the official withdrawal of three of its member nations—Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

The decision, which took effect on 29th January 2025, has sent shockwaves across the region, raising concerns over the future of regional cooperation and stability.

Confirming the development, the ECOWAS Commission, in a statement on Wednesday, assured that despite the exit, certain agreements will remain in place.

According to the regional bloc, passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS insignia will continue to be valid for travel within member states.

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Similarly, trade and economic activities under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme will not be immediately disrupted, allowing goods and services from the three countries to move freely across the region.

Furthermore, the commission stated that citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger would still enjoy visa-free movement, residence, and establishment rights in other ECOWAS countries until further notice.

It also urged all member states to extend full cooperation to officials from the departing nations while they continue their assignments within ECOWAS institutions.

Despite these assurances, uncertainty looms over the long-term impact of this major political shift. The ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government is expected to deliberate on the modalities of future engagements with the three breakaway nations.

While regional integration efforts now face a critical test, analysts warn that the departure of these countries could weaken ECOWAS’ influence in West Africa and further deepen divisions within the bloc.