Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso Officially Withdraw from ECOWAS

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has confirmed that Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have officially exited the regional bloc. In a statement released on Wednesday, the ECOWAS Commission announced that the withdrawal of the three military-led nations took effect on January 29, 2025.

Despite their departure, ECOWAS assured that passports and identity cards bearing its logo will remain valid for travel within the region. Trade and economic activities between member states and the three countries will continue under the existing ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, allowing goods and services to move freely.

The regional body also emphasized that citizens of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso will retain the right to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment in other ECOWAS countries until further notice. It called on member states to support and cooperate with ECOWAS officials from the three nations as they continue their assignments within the organization.

According to the statement, these transitional arrangements will remain in place while ECOWAS leaders determine the future of their engagement with Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.