Nigeria: The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Council is assessing the future of its operations, including the potential relocation of institutions and agencies currently situated in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, after the three nations formally withdrew from the regional bloc
This development was revealed in a statement by Alkasim Abdulkadir, Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy to Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.
During an Extraordinary Session in Accra, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, confirmed that the ECOWAS Commission will present detailed memoranda outlining the disengagement process. These documents will address the suspension of programs in the departing countries and explore the challenges related to the free movement of people, goods, and services within the region.
Ambassador Tuggar expressed that the Council had not anticipated the departure of member states but emphasized the importance of adapting to the new political dynamics in the three Sahelian countries under military rule.
“It is never our wish to discuss the withdrawal of our member states,” Tuggar stated. “However, in honoring the sovereignty of these nations, we must now find a way forward.”
Despite the gravity of the situation, Tuggar encouraged ECOWAS ministers to view this moment as an opportunity for institutional renewal and enhanced regional integration.
“As we look to the future, our task is to strengthen ECOWAS and leave a more resilient legacy for future generations. Our unity has been tested before—and we emerged stronger. We will do so again,” he affirmed.
He also commended Ghana and the ECOWAS Commission for the successful launch of the “ECOWAS at 50” celebrations, highlighting the significance of the events as a reflection of the bloc’s enduring resilience and shared aspirations.
“This gathering underscores our unwavering commitment to the progress of our regional community and the realization of ECOWAS’s core mission,” Tuggar concluded.
The Extraordinary Session was convened in response to a directive from the Authority of Heads of State and Government during its 66th Ordinary Session, which tasked the Council with developing a contingency plan to manage the withdrawal process. The ECOWAS Commission’s forthcoming memoranda are expected to guide the bloc through this transition while preserving regional unity and cooperation.
By Taiwo Olatinwo/ April 24, 2025
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