ECOWAS Seeks Urgent Talks as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso Prepare to Exit Bloc

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is seeking last-minute dialogue with Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso ahead of their official withdrawal on January 29, 2025.

ECOWAS Commission’s Head of Communication, Joel Ahofodji, confirmed letters had been sent to the military governments of the three nations requesting meetings.

This move follows the expiration of the one-year notice period required under Article 91 of the Revised ECOWAS Treaty for withdrawal from the bloc.

ECOWAS had introduced a six-month transitional period ending July 29, 2025, to finalize protocols and explore reconciliation with the three countries.

The withdrawing nations accused ECOWAS of abandoning its founding principles, citing sanctions imposed after military coups as evidence of external influence.

In response, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso formed the Alliance of Sahel States to strengthen mutual defense and forge ties with new allies like Russia.

President Bola Tinubu, ECOWAS Chairman, has emphasized diplomatic solutions while safeguarding the welfare of citizens in the affected countries.

The European Union has also urged ECOWAS to prioritize dialogue, offering its expertise to manage the withdrawal and support regional stability.