- The relationship between the breakaway countries and the ECOWAS hierarchy has become strained in recent years following the ousting of democratically elected governments and seizing of power by juntas in the countries
The exit of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic from The Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, has been finally formalised.
The regional body officially recognized the departure of the three countries on Wednesday.
The trio’s exit became effective on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, upon the expiration of a one-year notice period.
However, as mark regional unity, ECOWAS instructed its member countries to still recognize the national passports and identity cards of the three countries bearing the ECOWAS logo until further notice.
In a statement by the ECOWAS Authority, the body said its doors remain open for more engagements with the three countries.
The West African bloc also urged its members to continue to treat goods and services coming from the three countries in accordance with the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.
It also asked member states to 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, and to provide full support and cooperation to ECOWAS officials from the three countries in the course of their assignments for the Community.
“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 Commission has set up a structure to facilitate discussions on these modalities with each of the three countries. This message is necessary to avoid confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of our people during this transition period,” the statement concluded.
The relationship between the breakaway countries and the ECOWAS hierarchy has become strained in recent years following the ousting of democratically elected governments and seizing of power by juntas in the countries.
Scores of people on Tuesday reportedly rallied in Niger and Burkina Faso in support of the withdrawal of their countries from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which is due to take effect Wednesday.