ECOWAS keeps borders open for Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger.

The Economic Community of West African States has announced that despite the official withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the bloc today (Wednesday 29 January 2025), citizens and businesses from these countries will continue to enjoy key benefits of membership to maintain regional stability.

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

ECOWAS assured that passports and identity cards bearing its logo will remain valid for travel within the region.

Trade and economic activities will proceed under the existing ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, allowing goods and services from the three countries to move freely.

According to the statement, their citizens will retain visa-free access, residence, and establishment rights across ECOWAS 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 established to negotiate future engagement with the three countries, ensuring that the transition does not negatively impact millions of people who rely on cross-border movement and trade.

The statement added, “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 Commission has set up a structure to facilitate discussions on these modalities with each of the three countries. This message is necessary to avoid confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of our people during this transition period.”