Maureen Okpe
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has formalized the exit of the three countries, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from the regional body.
However, members have been directed to continue granting citizens of the three countries free movements despite their exit from the regional bloc.
A statement issued on Wednesday, by the commission stated that, the withdrawal of the three countries became effective today, Wednesday 29, 2025, noting its decision to keep its doors open was in the spirit of regional solidarity.
The commission further charged members to continue to treat goods and services coming from the three countries in accordance with the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.
The statement also called for the continuous recognituon of the National passports and identity cards bearing ECOWAS logo held by the citizens of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger, until further notice.
“Allow 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 until further notice.
“Provide full support and cooperation to ECOWAS officials from the three countries in the course of their assignments for the Community.”
The commission disclosed that, these arrangements will be in place until the full determination of the modalities of our future engagement with the three countries by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.
“The Commission has set up a structure to facilitate discussions on these modalities with each of the three countries. This message is necessary to avoid confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of our people during this transition period.”