Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger announced immediate withdrawal from ECOWAS
In January 2024, the military-led governments of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced their immediate withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This decision was driven by their dissatisfaction with ECOWAS's "inhumane" sanctions and its perceived failure to address escalating security challenges in the Sahel region.
Following their departure, the three nations established the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a confederation aimed at enhancing cooperation in foreign policy, security, and economic development. The AES seeks to ensure the free movement of people and goods and plans to create a joint investment bank.
In response to the withdrawal, ECOWAS approved a transitional timeline for the exit of these countries, spanning from January 29 to July 29, 2025. During this period, ECOWAS intends to keep channels open for dialogue and mediation.
The departure of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS marks a significant shift in West African regional dynamics, reflecting deepening divides over governance and security strategies.
Discover More
Egypt–Ethiopia: Nile Talks Reopen as Sisi Signals Openness to U.S. Mediation
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said he welcomes an offer by U.S. President Donald Trump to mediate the long-running dispute over Nile waters between Egypt and Ethiopia.
Lake Chad Border Clash
A renewed, high-intensity armed clash between ISWAP elements and fighters aligned with the “Bukura” faction loyal to Abu Umaima along the Lake Chad Basin border axis in Abadam LGA (Borno State), near Dogon Chiku Buhari—a settlement assessed to be within ~1 km of the Nigeria–Niger frontier.
Contact us to find out how our security services can support you.
We operate in almost all countries in Africa, including high-risk environments, monitoring and analyze ongoing conflicts, the hotspots and the potential upcoming threats on the continent. Every day. Around the clock.