The Bronze Cracks in ECOWAS’s Golden Jubilee

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is navigating significant challenges following the formal withdrawal of three member states, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, on 29 January 2025. These nations, now governed by military juntas, have formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), citing sovereignty concerns and dissatisfaction with ECOWAS’s responses to recent political developments. The departure of these countries has raised concerns about West Africa’s stability. Niger’s recent withdrawal from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), a coalition aimed at combating Islamist insurgencies in the Lake Chad area, underscores the potential weakening of coordinated security efforts. Such moves could embolden jihadist groups and adversely affect local communities. The ECOWAS breakup has disrupted regional trade, leading to increased food prices in West Africa. The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, which together represent 16 per cent of ECOWAS’s population and seven per cent of its GDP, threatens food security and regional cooperation. Currently, nearly 34.7 million people in the region require immediate food and nutrition assistance, a figure that could rise to 47 million by the lean season between June and August 2025. The president of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, has expressed optimism about mediation efforts, emphasizing the importance of maintaining regional unity. However, the AES nations are exploring alternative alliances, as evidenced by their recent diplomatic engagements with Russia to strengthen military cooperation. ​