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Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Officially Exit ECOWAS



The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially confirmed the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the regional bloc effective today, January 29, 2025. However, in a move to prevent disruption in trade, travel, and diplomatic relations, ECOWAS has announced transitional measures to maintain cooperation with the three countries.


In a statement issued by the ECOWAS Commission, the regional body emphasized that despite the formal exit, its doors remain open for dialogue and future engagement with the three nations. The commission urged all relevant authorities within and outside ECOWAS member states to:

Recognize national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo held by citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger until further notice.

Continue facilitating trade by allowing goods and services from the three countries to be treated under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.

Maintain the visa-free movement, residence, and establishment rights of citizens from the three nations as per ECOWAS protocols.

Support and cooperate with ECOWAS officials from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger in carrying out assignments for the regional body.

These measures, ECOWAS stated, will remain in place until the Authority of Heads of State and Government finalizes the modalities of future engagement with the three countries. A structure has already been established to facilitate discussions on the way forward.


The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger follows months of political tension between the military-led governments of these nations and ECOWAS, particularly over sanctions and governance concerns.


However, the regional bloc’s latest statement signals an effort to ensure a smooth transition that minimizes disruption to citizens and businesses.
ECOWAS reiterated that this approach is aimed at preventing confusion and maintaining stability in the region.

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