The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has emphasized that the ongoing withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the regional bloc must not adversely affect ordinary citizens in those countries or across West Africa.

This statement was made by Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, during the first ordinary session of the ECOWAS Parliament for 2025, currently taking place in Abuja, Nigeria.

"In line with the decisions of the heads of state and government, we held an emergency meeting in April to create a negotiation framework for this exit; however, we must ensure that the people of our region do not suffer the consequences," Touray stated.

The Commission President revealed that an emergency session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers was convened in Accra, Ghana, to develop a strategy for negotiations with the three Sahel countries. Direct talks are scheduled to commence this week.

Touray's remarks come at a significant moment as the regional bloc celebrates its 50th anniversary. "This Golden Jubilee is not just a celebration. It is a moment of reflection on how far we've come and what direction we want to take as a community," he added.

Looking ahead, Touray announced plans for a summit on the future of West Africa later this year, which will be preceded by extensive consultations with stakeholders across the region.

The ECOWAS Commission President also urged parliamentarians to initiate debates on artificial intelligence, warning that if left unregulated, its negative effects could threaten the future of young people throughout West Africa.

The current parliamentary session in Abuja will continue until May 31, 2025.