The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially approved the withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from the regional bloc.....Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
The decision, taken by the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, marks a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of West Africa.
Disclosing this decision at the end of the 66th Ordinary Summit of the Authority of Heads of State and ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, said the three countries will formally cease to be members of ECOWAS on January 29, 2025, in accordance with Article 91 of the revised ECOWAS treaty.
Following their notifications to withdraw, the regional bloc outlined a transitional period from January 29 to July 29, 2025, keeping its doors open for the countries to reconsider their decision.
Acknowledging the diplomatic efforts led by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé, and ECOWAS Chairman Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the bloc emphasized its commitment to fostering dialogue.
He further said the Authority has extended the mandates of Presidents Gnassingbé and Faye to continue mediation efforts throughout the transition period.
He said ECOWAS, during the transitional phase, will focus on preparing for the separation.
