The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Council of Ministers, has begun deliberations on the potential relocation of regional institutions currently based in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
This development follows the formal notification of withdrawal by the three Sahelian countries from the regional bloc.
The discussions, held during an Extraordinary Session in Accra, Ghana, were chaired by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Tuggar acknowledged the difficult nature of the situation but emphasized the need for adaptation.
“It was never our wish to deliberate on member state withdrawals,” he said.
“But in respecting the sovereignty of these nations, we must chart a new, forward-looking path.”
The Council is also expected to review memoranda from the ECOWAS Commission addressing:The withdrawal process of the three Countries, suspension of regional programs in the affected Nation, challenges to the free movement of people, goods, and services.
Ambassador Tuggar, encouraged member states to see the situation as an opportunity for institutional renewal and deeper integration.
“Our unity has been tested before—and we emerged stronger. We will do so again,” he said.
He further urged ministers to ensure that ECOWAS continues to serve as the primary platform for addressing West Africa’s challenges.
“Membership, as the saying goes, has its privileges,” he added.
Tuggar also congratulated the ECOWAS Commission and the Ghanaian government on the successful launch of the “ECOWAS at 50” celebrations, describing the event as a reflection of the bloc’s legacy and future aspirations.
The Extraordinary Session followed a directive from the Authority of Heads of State and Government during its 66th Ordinary Session to develop a contingency plan for the disengagement of the three nations.
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