The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held an Extraordinary Session of the Council of Ministers on April 22-23, 2025, in Accra, Ghana. The focus was on planning and procedures for the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the regional organization.
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana's Minister for Foreign Affairs, addressed delegates, highlighting the significance of ECOWAS's 50-year history and expressing Ghana's commitment to West Africa's integration. He emphasized the ongoing cultural and economic connections despite the official withdrawal of the three countries, stating, “Though relations may be severed on paper, the realities on the ground tell a different story.”
ECOWAS Commission President, H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, spoke on the need to uphold the Community's core values even as the three countries exit. He mentioned the contingency plan that covers legal, economic, security, and development aspects. He stated, “This meeting is expected to consider and agree on our future relations with the AES countries.”
Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chair of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, initiated the meeting by emphasizing unity and focus on regional integration, urging member states to safeguard ECOWAS's legacy.
The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, effective from January 29, 2025, adhered to the revised ECOWAS Treaty of 1993, marking the end of a mandated one-year notice period.
Alerts Sign-up