Tinubu’s aide says ECOWAS crisis followed Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger exit
Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, has highlighted the significant impact of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger withdrawing from ECOWAS. He explained that the exit of these countries weakened regional integration and disrupted established protocols. The creation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) was a direct result of this rupture. Gen Christopher Musa (retd.) also emphasized the government's focus on national security and democratic stability.
What we know
- Sunday Dare stated that the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS in 2025 created a major regional crisis.
- The pullout blunted ECOWAS protocols that promoted integration and the free movement of goods and services.
- The withdrawal led to the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a counter-regional body to ECOWAS.
- The three countries formally exited ECOWAS in January 2025, after announcing their intention to withdraw in 2024.
- Gen Christopher Musa (retd.) noted that the Tinubu administration is prioritising national security and the preservation of democratic institutions.
