Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger set for removal from ECOWAS in 2025

Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger set for removal from ECOWAS in 2025.

… countries’ exit scheduled between January 29 and July 29, 2025.

In a significant development for West African regional politics, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic are set to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in 2025. Alieu Touray, president of the ECOWAS commission, announced the withdrawal during the 66th ordinary session of heads of states and governments held in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

Touray specified a six-month withdrawal period, with the countries’ exit scheduled between January 29 and July 29, 2025. The extended timeframe is intended to provide an opportunity for final diplomatic negotiations and potential mediation efforts to resolve outstanding issues.

The announcement marks a critical moment for the regional bloc, highlighting growing tensions and political divergences among member states. The three countries have been experiencing increasing political instability, including military coups, which have strained their relationships with other ECOWAS members.

This withdrawal could have significant implications for regional cooperation, trade, and diplomatic relations in West Africa, potentially reshaping the economic and political landscape of the subregion.