During a visit by Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, Nigerien President General Abdourahamane Tiani called for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to recognize and collaborate with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
General Tiani’s request highlights the complex regional dynamics following the recent withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS. These three countries, now members of the AES, are seeking to strengthen their cooperation and establish the alliance as a recognized regional bloc.
President Mahama’s diplomatic tour of AES countries, which includes visits to Mali and Burkina Faso, aims to foster dialogue and explore avenues for cooperation between the two blocs. In Mali, Mahama emphasized the need for “decent relations” between the AES and ECOWAS, highlighting the importance of restoring trust between their leaders.
The withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS in January 2025 has created a tense regional environment. The AES countries have intensified their cooperation, adopting a new passport and flag, and strengthening defense and security collaboration.
Despite the tensions, President Mahama, who recently met with Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara to advocate for the return of the three countries to ECOWAS, has appointed a special envoy for the AES. While the AES countries have withdrawn from ECOWAS, they have maintained the free movement of ECOWAS citizens and upheld regional agreements on the movement of goods and services.
This situation underscores the ongoing efforts to navigate the complex political landscape in West Africa and find ways to promote cooperation and stability amidst shifting alliances and regional dynamics.
AC/Sf/fss/abj/APA