Military leaders from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have rejected a proposal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to delay their planned exit by six months, in a move that could significantly alter the regional dynamics of West Africa.

The three nations, now aligned under the Alliance of Sahel States, had been granted a grace period until next July, extending their scheduled January 29 withdrawal date, to allow mediators more time to convince them to remain in ECOWAS. However, Mali's military leader, General Assimi Goita, described the move as "yet another destabilization attempt" targeting the Sahel nations, and asserted that the decision to leave is "immediate and irreversible."

The defence and security forces of the three nations have been placed on "maximum alert," according to the statement. This development comes after Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso severed security ties with France in recent years, opting instead to strengthen alliances with countries like Russia, Iran, and Turkey.

The exit of these countries represents a significant loss for ECOWAS, reducing its population by 76 million out of 446 million and cutting its total geographical land area by more than half. Following the departure of these three countries, ECOWAS is left with 12 active member states, excluding Guinea, which remains suspended due to its 2021 military coup.

The implications of this move are far-reaching, with potential consequences for regional integration and cooperation in West Africa. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has long been a cornerstone of regional integration and cooperation in West Africa, and the departure of these three nations could significantly alter the bloc's composition and influence.

It is worth noting that Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have promised visa-free travel amid the ECOWAS split, which could have significant implications for regional trade and commerce. However, the full extent of the consequences of this move remains to be seen, and will likely depend on the actions of the remaining ECOWAS member states.

In conclusion, the rejection of the ECOWAS withdrawal delay proposal by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso marks a significant shift in the regional dynamics of West Africa, with potential consequences for regional integration and cooperation. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the remaining ECOWAS member states will respond, and what the ultimate implications will be for the region.