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ECOWAS Faces Uncertainty As Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso Exit Deadline Ends

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ECOWAS Niger Mali Exit
  • Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso’s ECOWAS exit deadline expires today amid uncertainty.
  • ECOWAS seeks dialogue, but the countries show no signs of reconsidering.
  • The three nations formed an alliance, strengthening ties with Russia.

The deadline for Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso to exit the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) expires today, heightening uncertainty in the region. ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray is set to brief the media on the implications of their departure.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the three Sahel nations were suspended in January 2024 following military coups that toppled their elected governments. Despite diplomatic efforts, no indication has emerged that the countries are reconsidering their withdrawal. ECOWAS had sent letters requesting meetings with the junta-led administrations, but no official responses have been received.

Under Article 91 of the Revised ECOWAS Treaty, a one-year notice period is required for withdrawal, which has now elapsed. However, the regional bloc had proposed a six-month transition, extending until July 29, 2025, to finalize withdrawal protocols and explore possible reconciliation.

During the 66th ECOWAS Ordinary Session in December 2024, Touray reaffirmed the bloc’s openness to dialogue with the three nations. Mediation efforts are ongoing, with Senegalese President Bassirou Faye and Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé mandated to engage the departing states.

The governments of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have accused ECOWAS of straying from its founding principles and bowing to external pressures, particularly regarding sanctions imposed after their military takeovers. In response, they formed the Alliance of Sahel States, prioritizing mutual defence and regional cooperation while distancing themselves from Western powers such as France and strengthening ties with Russia.

President Bola Tinubu, chair of the ECOWAS Authority, has reiterated the bloc’s commitment to diplomatic solutions while ensuring regional stability and the protection of citizens.

ECOWAS, founded in 1975 to promote economic integration, has faced increasing challenges amid a wave of military coups. Mali experienced takeovers in 2020 and 2021, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Niger in 2023. The latest coup in Niger saw President Mohamed Bazoum ousted by the presidential guard, with General Abdourahamane Tchiani assuming power.

ECOWAS Niger Mali Exit

ECOWAS Niger Mali Exit

As the withdrawal deadline expires, ECOWAS now faces a crucial moment in regional diplomacy and security.

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