ABUJA, Nigeria (BG) — The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announced Wednesday that the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the regional bloc has become effective.

The decision follows months of tensions between the three Sahelian nations and ECOWAS, which had imposed sanctions on their military-led governments following coups in recent years.

ECOWAS stated in a press release that it remains committed to regional solidarity and has implemented transitional measures to minimize disruption for citizens and businesses in the three countries despite the withdrawal.

According to the ECOWAS Commission, authorities in member states and beyond are required to continue recognizing national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo from citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger until further notice.

The statement also said goods and services from the three countries will continue to be treated under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme and investment policy.

Citizens of the departing nations will retain their right to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment in ECOWAS member states under existing protocols, according to the media release.

“Provide full support and cooperation to ECOWAS officials from three countries in the course of their assignments for the Community,” the West African Bloc said.

“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 statement read.

The commission noted that discussions are ongoing to clarify the framework for future relations with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

Led by military rulers — Capt. Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso, Col. Assimi Goïta of Mali, and Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani of Niger — the three leaders have formed a new regional alliance called the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which they say will prioritize mutual security, economic cooperation, and sovereignty from foreign influence.

As part of their exit from ECOWAS, the three countries have created a new passport system, which will take effect following the official withdrawal.

The withdrawal from ECOWAS follows the expulsion of foreign military forces from the three nations, including French and U.S. troops stationed in the Sahel for counterterrorism operations.

The military governments argue that ECOWAS failed to support them in addressing security threats and have increasingly turned toward new defense partnerships with Russia and other allies.

Their departure marks a significant shift in regional dynamics, raising questions about the future of economic and political cooperation in West Africa.

ECOWAS reiterated that it is taking steps to prevent confusion and disruption in the lives of people and businesses during the transition period.