ECOWAS, Sahel States Begin First Ministerial Talks Since Withdrawal

Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have held their first ministerial-level talks with ECOWAS since leaving the regional bloc in January 2025. Both sides agreed to form joint working groups that will draft a framework for future cooperation. They said the discussions were guided by fraternity, mutual respect and the need for good neighbourly relations. The three military-led countries now operate through the Alliance of Sahel States. Their exit from ECOWAS followed coups, disputes over regional sanctions and growing tensions with some West African governments. The renewed engagement could shape regional security, trade and diplomatic relations across West Africa, including Nigeria's relationship with its Sahel neighbours.

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