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Three West African nations, Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali, and the Republic of Niger have officially resigned from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The Community announced in a statement it issued Wednesday, January 29, 2025. It said its doors are still opened for the countries for future engagements if they intend to come back to the table.

ECOWAS has further expressed its commitment to regional solidarity and outlined transitional measures to ensure businesses and lives are not disrupted during the period.

The exit of the three nations marks a significant shift in West Africa’s regional dynamics considering the key roles they played in the bloc’s integration agenda.

Meanwhile, the bloc has asked member countries to recognise national passports and identity cards held by citizens of these three countries bearing the ECOWAS logo until further notice.

To also ensure the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policies are uninterrupted, the bloc has said goods and services coming from these countries would continue to benefit members.

Also, citizens of the three nations will retain their rights to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment within ECOWAS territories, in line with existing protocols.

The Commission stated that these arrangements will remain in effect until a comprehensive framework for future engagement with the three countries is determined by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.

Below is the press statement