ECOWAS Parliament seeks Return of Burkina Faso, Mali & Niger

Banjul, The Gambia —  The Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has once again urged Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to reconsider their exit from the regional bloc and return to the community of West African nations.

This appeal came at the close of a five-day Joint Committee Delocalised Meeting in Banjul, The Gambia, where lawmakers deliberated on regional integration and security challenges.

Addressing the media, Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe Jr., Chair of the Joint Committee, described the withdrawal of the three Sahel nations as a significant setback for ECOWAS, which has maintained a united front for over five decades.

“We are pained by your absence. This family has stood the test of time for 50 years. We urge our brothers in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to come back home. Our strength lies in our unity,” he said.

Senator Snowe emphasized that the political, economic, and humanitarian consequences of their departure are far-reaching, particularly for the already fragile Sahel region. He reiterated the Parliament’s commitment to dialogue and understanding.

“No matter the disagreements, we can find common ground. It’s time to move forward, together,” he added.

The trio of nations exited ECOWAS earlier this year, citing concerns over what they called deviations from the bloc’s foundational values and what they viewed as disproportionate sanctions following military interventions in their respective countries.

Also lending her voice, Hon. Veronica Sessay, Chairperson of the Committee on Social Affairs, Gender, and Vulnerable Persons, appealed passionately for reconciliation, stating that regional collaboration remains critical to addressing common challenges.

“We need Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali. We have always faced our challenges as one community,” she said. Hon. Sessay, who also leads the ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians Association (ECOFEPA), reminded members of the bloc’s historical role in restoring peace in conflict-affected countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone.

“During our darkest hours, ECOWAS stood by us. Let us not abandon that spirit of solidarity,” she emphasized.

She drew particular attention to the disproportionate impact of conflict on women and children, warning that political rifts could worsen the plight of the region’s most vulnerable.

In her closing remarks, Hon. Zainab Gimba expressed appreciation to the government and people of The Gambia for their warm hospitality and continued commitment to the ECOWAS vision.

“The support and fraternity we experienced here reaffirm The Gambia’s central role in promoting regional integration and democratic ideals,” she stated.

As the ECOWAS Parliament looks ahead, lawmakers say efforts will continue to build bridges and encourage dialogue with the three former member states in the interest of regional peace and development.

By Enoch Odesola | May 3, 2025