Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have formally withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a move officially acknowledged by the regional bloc on Wednesday, January 29.

In a statement, the ECOWAS Commission expressed its commitment to regional stability and outlined transitional measures to minimise disruptions for citizens and businesses in the departing countries. The exit of these nations represents a shift in West Africa’s regional dynamics, as they had been key participants in ECOWAS’ integration efforts.

Despite the withdrawal, ECOWAS stressed its ongoing willingness to engage with the three countries in the future. The commission assured that citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger would continue to enjoy rights such as visa-free travel, residence, and trade benefits under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), pending a future framework for cooperation.

The ECOWAS directive also reiterated that national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo will remain valid, and goods and services from the three countries will continue to benefit from regional trade and investment policies.

Source:TheDotNews