Trade, Travel Unaffected as Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger Officially Exit ECOWAS

Kehinde Fajobi

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has confirmed that despite the official withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger on Wednesday, citizens and businesses from these countries will still enjoy essential regional benefits to maintain stability.

A statement from the ECOWAS Commission read, “The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger from ECOWAS has become effective today, 29th January 2025.”

However, ECOWAS assured that passports and identity cards bearing its logo will remain valid for travel, and trade will continue under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme.

Citizens of the three nations will still have visa-free access, as well as rights to residence and establishment in member states.

“However, in the spirit of regional solidarity and in the interest of the people, as well as the decision of the ECOWAS Authority to keep ECOWAS’ doors open, all relevant authorities within and outside ECOWAS Member States are requested and required to:

“Recognise National passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo held by the citizens of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger, until further notice.

“Continue to treat goods and services coming from the three countries in accordance with the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme and investment policy.

“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 statement read.

A special ECOWAS committee has been set up to negotiate the bloc’s future engagement with these countries, ensuring that the transition does not disrupt cross-border movement and trade for millions of people.

“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 statement added.

ECOWAS also urged authorities to ensure a smooth transition, warning against actions that could disrupt businesses and the livelihoods of affected citizens.

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