The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed optimism about the possible return of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which officially withdrew from the regional bloc on January 29, 2024.
Speaking at ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary ceremony in Nigeria, Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar highlighted the importance of the bloc’s achievements and described democracy as an evolving process.
ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray emphasized the organization’s commitment to unity, despite the current absence of the three Sahelian nations.
The bloc has set a transition period until July 29, 2025, to engage with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in a bid to reverse their exit.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—now operating under the AES, formed in September 2023—cited unfair sanctions and foreign influence as reasons for their withdrawal.
The AES, converted into a confederation on July 6, 2024, is focused on deepening defense, economic, and social cooperation.
The alliance plans to deploy a 5,000-strong joint military force to combat terrorism and is launching a joint passport and a digital television channel to address regional disinformation. Additionally, the AES nations have withdrawn from the International Organization of La Francophonie as they seek to redefine their global alliances.
