Queen Kunde
Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have officially withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as of January 29, 2025. To ease the transition, ECOWAS has announced temporary measures to ensure stability and minimize disruptions for citizens and businesses.
According to an official statement, citizens of the three nations can continue using ECOWAS passports and ID cards, travel visa-free, and trade under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS). Additionally, ECOWAS officials from the departing nations will receive full support while fulfilling their duties.
These measures will remain in effect until a structured framework for future cooperation is established. ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to regional solidarity and expressed openness to dialogue as the transition progresses.