Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger Plan ECOWAS Exit

Nigeria's participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) faces challenges due to infrastructural deficits and regulatory issues, potentially hindering its economic benefits from the initiative. The AfCFTA aims to foster intra-African trade by creating a single market, but stakeholders emphasize the need for improved trade facilitation and manufacturing capabilities. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are set to officially exit ECOWAS this month, despite ongoing efforts by the bloc to persuade them to reconsider their decision. The military-led governments of these nations cite grievances over sanctions and foreign influence as key reasons for their withdrawal. Analysts suggest that Nigeria's diplomatic relations with France could impact its leadership role in ECOWAS amidst growing anti-French sentiment in the region. As tensions rise, calls for dialogue to restore relations with the exiting countries are increasing, highlighting the delicate political landscape in West Africa.