Withdrawal of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS Will Affect Their Citizens – President Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed regret over the decision of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw their membership from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). In response to the announcement made by the three countries, currently under military rule, Akufo-Addo, a former ECOWAS Chair, deemed the move unfortunate and emphasized its potential adverse effects on the citizens of these nations.

The trio asserts that ECOWAS has surpassed its utility and fails to align with their interests. President Akufo-Addo highlighted the significance of the impending impact on the affected populations in these countries. Despite the withdrawal, he mentioned that ECOWAS has yet to convene to evaluate the consequences and determine the way forward.

“This unfortunate decision by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to withdraw from the ECOWAS community is going to be very negative for the populations there,” remarked President Akufo-Addo. He further disclosed that discussions on the implications of the withdrawal and the future direction of the regional community would await a signal from the head of ECOWAS, Nigerian President Tinubu. The summit is anticipated to address the aftermath of this development and outline strategies to mitigate the potential repercussions for the affected nations and their citizens.