The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has been reduced to 12 member countries following the exit of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, which have formed the Alliance of Sahel States. This significant shift in the bloc's composition and influence was confirmed by the ECOWAS Commission President, Alieu Touray, during the 66th Ordinary Session of Heads of State and Government in Abuja.

The newly formed Alliance of Sahel States aims to provide mutual support against external threats and internal security challenges, which its member countries believe ECOWAS has failed to address adequately. The three nations, now under military rule, have been critical of ECOWAS' handling of terrorism and insecurity in the region, accusing the bloc of imposing "illegal, illegitimate, inhumane, and irresponsible sanctions."

ECOWAS, established in 1975, has long been a cornerstone of regional integration and cooperation in West Africa, promoting economic development, peace, and political stability among its member states. However, the recent exit of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger represents a significant loss for the bloc, reducing its population by 76 million out of 446 million and cutting its total geographical land area by more than half.

The implications of this exit go beyond symbolism, as the remaining 12 member states will need to reassess their relationships and strategies within the bloc. The exit of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger has also raised concerns about the effectiveness of ECOWAS in addressing regional security challenges.

In January 2024, the military-led governments of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced their decision to exit ECOWAS, citing grievances against the bloc's handling of terrorism and insecurity. The three nations have since formed the Alliance of Sahel States, uniting under military rule and breaking away from the larger West African regional bloc.

The Alliance of Sahel States' leaders have pledged mutual support against external threats and internal security challenges, signaling their commitment to collective defense and stability. This development has far-reaching implications for regional security and cooperation in West Africa.

As the ECOWAS bloc adjusts to this new reality, it remains to be seen how the remaining member states will respond to the challenges posed by the exit of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. One thing is certain, however: the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States marks a significant shift in the regional landscape, with potential consequences for economic development, peace, and political stability in West Africa.