Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio is spearheading renewed diplomatic efforts to mend and reinforce the relationship between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the three Sahelian nations—Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—that formally exited the bloc earlier this year.
Six weeks after the 67th ECOWAS summit in Abuja, which established a ministerial troika to manage the historic departure of these countries, President Bio reiterated his call for “a closer and stronger partnership” with the Confederation of Sahel States (AES).
This stance aligns with a broader reconciliation strategy initiated by his predecessor, Nigeria’s Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking at a meeting in Freetown with ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, Bio emphasised the critical need to “build a stronger relationship between ECOWAS and the AES nations and leverage this partnership for the advancement of our Community.”
He highlighted the fundamental role these ties play in promoting trade, free movement, and regional peace and security.
The three AES countries officially withdrew from ECOWAS in January 2025, following Article 91 of the revised ECOWAS treaty, which allows for a one-year exit period after announcing their departure in January 2024.
Since then, the AES has moved swiftly to consolidate its independence, creating a confederal structure complete with a flag, anthem, common passport, and plans for a joint military force.
President Bio’s appeal follows ongoing dialogue efforts, including a May 22 meeting in Bamako between ECOWAS officials and AES foreign ministers. Despite institutional rupture, both sides appear committed to sustained communication.
Bio further voiced support for “democratic and electoral transition processes” unfolding across the region, citing transitions in Guinea and upcoming elections in Côte d’Ivoire and Guinea-Bissau.
He also proposed convening a “special summit focused on the future of the West African region” to mark 50 years of regional cooperation and integration.
Dr. Touray, meanwhile, provided updates on political developments within member states and community fiscal matters, assuring that an assessment mission will soon be deployed to Sierra Leone and Guinea to address the longstanding Yenga border dispute.
As West Africa navigates complex political realignments, President Bio’s diplomacy signals a hopeful, if cautious, pathway toward rebuilding unity and collaboration across the region.
About The Author
