This move follows the resolutions made at the conclusion of the 66th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Commission Authority of Heads of State and Government, held in Abuja.
In the communiqué delivered by ECOWAS Commission President, Omar Touray, the organization expressed its respect for the three countries’ decision to exit.
However, it also outlined a six-month transition period, from January 29 to July 29, during which ongoing negotiations with an ECOWAS mediation team, led by the Presidents of Senegal and Togo, will continue.
ECOWAS further stated that if the three countries decide to rejoin the community during this transition period, they would be welcomed back.
This decision aligns with Article 91 of the revised ECOWAS treaties, which upholds the sovereignty of each member state.
As a result, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger will officially cease to be members of ECOWAS starting January 29, 2025.