BREAKING: Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso officially exit ECOWAS

Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, the three military-dominated West African countries, have formally left the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The ECOWAS Commission said in a statement on Wednesday that "the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali, and the Republic of Niger from ECOWAS has become effective today, 29th January 2025."

ECOWAS guaranteed that identity cards and passports with its insignia will continue to be accepted for travel within the region.

Under the current ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, trade and economic activity will also continue, permitting the free flow of products and services among the three nations.

It went on to say, "Until further notice, permit 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."

Furthermore, it called on members to keep supporting and collaborating fully with ECOWAS officials from the three nations as they carry out their Community-related tasks.

The statement explained, "These arrangements will remain in place until the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government fully determines the modalities of our future engagement with the three countries."