Nigeria Today Magazine General News ECOWAS Allows Free Movement for Citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Despite Exit

ECOWAS Allows Free Movement for Citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Despite Exit


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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced that member states should continue to grant free movement to citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, even as these countries officially exit the regional bloc today, January 29, 2025.

This decision follows a notice of withdrawal issued exactly one year ago. In a statement released this morning, ECOWAS emphasized its commitment to regional solidarity, stating that it would keep its doors open for the people of the departing nations.

The organization instructed member states to recognize national passports and identity cards featuring the ECOWAS logo held by citizens of the three countries “until further notice.” It also reaffirmed that goods and services from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger should continue to be treated in accordance with the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme.

Additionally, citizens from these countries will retain their rights to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment, as stipulated by ECOWAS protocols, until further announcements are made. The commission has also set up a framework to facilitate discussions regarding future engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

This announcement aims to prevent any disruption in the lives and businesses of citizens during this transition period. Citizens in these countries celebrated their exit from ECOWAS, voicing concerns that the organization primarily serves French interests.

In response, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have formed a new alliance called the Alliance of Sahelian States (AES) and are planning to introduce a uniform passport.

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