ECOWAS Grants Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Six Months to Reconsider Withdrawal

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has given Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger a six-month period, from January 29 to July 29, 2025, to reconsider their decision to leave the regional bloc. The announcement came after the 66th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, held in Abuja on Sunday.

Transition Period and Mediation Efforts

Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, revealed the grace period, emphasizing that the three countries will officially cease to be members of ECOWAS on January 29, 2025, under Article 91 of the revised ECOWAS Treaty. However, the bloc has designated the following six months as a transitional period, keeping its doors open to facilitate dialogue and potential reintegration.

To support these efforts, ECOWAS extended the mandate of the presidents of Togo and Senegal, Faure Gnassingbé and Bassirou Diomaye Faye, respectively. Their mediation roles will continue until the end of the transition period, aiming to reconcile the three nations with the regional community.

Preparations for Withdrawal

Despite its openness to dialogue, ECOWAS has directed its Commission President to initiate formal withdrawal procedures after January 29, 2025, if the countries maintain their decision to leave. These preparations include drafting a contingency plan to address political and economic relations with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger post-withdrawal.

Additionally, the ECOWAS Council of Ministers is set to convene an extraordinary session in the second quarter of 2025. This meeting will finalize the separation modalities and contingency measures to manage the impact of the withdrawal.

Diplomatic Efforts Praised

ECOWAS leaders commended the diplomatic initiatives led by President Gnassingbé and President Faye, as well as the efforts of the bloc’s Chair, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, and other member states. These leaders have actively engaged in fostering dialogue with the three nations.

In his closing remarks, President Tinubu acknowledged the unity and determination demonstrated during the summit. He urged member states to remain committed to the shared principles of the bloc, including democracy, good governance, and regional security.

“As we implement the outcomes of this Summit, let us remain united in our determination and steadfast in our commitment to the principles that bind us together,” Tinubu said. He emphasized the importance of turning summit decisions into tangible benefits for citizens, fostering a peaceful, secure, and prosperous West Africa.

Honoring Leaders

During the session, Tinubu also congratulated outgoing African Union Commission Chair Moussa Mahamat, attending his final session in the role. He extended special praise to Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, affectionately referring to him as “Mr. Democrat,” and highlighted his invaluable contributions to ECOWAS.

Tinubu expressed confidence in the region’s ability to overcome its challenges, stating that the bloc would continue to draw on the wisdom and leadership of its member states.