Thousands take to the streets to mark Niger’s departure from ECOWAS
3 min readThousands of people took to the streets in Niamey and other towns across Niger on Tuesday to celebrate the country’s departure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This marked a significant milestone for Niger, which, along with Burkina Faso and Mali, formally exited the regional bloc. The event was organized by the civil society group M62, which called on citizens to participate in marking the new chapter for Niger and its neighboring countries.
These three nations, which had already been facing tensions with ECOWAS over political and military issues, have now formed a new alliance known as the Confederation of Sahel States (AES). The AES represents a shift in the regional dynamics of West Africa, with the member countries seeking greater sovereignty and independence from ECOWAS, which has been critical of the governments in these nations, particularly after military coups disrupted political stability.
Salifou Harouna, a Niamey resident, was among the thousands who gathered for the celebration. “If you find a Nigerien today who is not happy, you have to ask yourself what kind of Nigerien he or she is,” Harouna said. He emphasized that the AES had united the people of Niger in support of their newfound sovereignty. “All Nigeriens are united by the AES,” he continued, expressing the collective sense of pride in reclaiming their national autonomy. The demonstrators were clear in their desire to support the government’s decision, reaffirming that they wanted to ensure complete sovereignty and a prosperous future under the new alliance.
The streets were filled with both government officials and civil society activists, all showing their support for the transition away from ECOWAS. The crowd echoed calls for other countries in the region to join the AES. Activist Kadidja Alkassoum was among those encouraging further solidarity within the Sahel region. “The AES has taken the lead and everyone should follow,” Alkassoum declared. “We’re calling on our brothers to follow the AES. Because the AES will not back down from anything or anyone, because its people are behind it.”
For the authorities in Niamey, the departure from ECOWAS represents a new era. Niamey’s governor, Abdou Assaoumane Harouna, addressed the crowd, stressing that the decision to align with AES marked an irreversible shift. “We are in the AES confederation. From now on, tolerance, conciliation, acceptance of others, and harmonious development will guide our every step,” Harouna said, underscoring the importance of unity and peace in their new path forward.
The political shift comes amidst ongoing negotiations with ECOWAS to ensure a smooth and orderly transition. Discussions have centered around the practical arrangements for Niger’s formal exit from ECOWAS, which was scheduled for January 29. Part of this transition will involve the launch of a common passport for AES member countries, symbolizing their shared commitment to collaboration and regional integration within the new alliance.
The formation of the AES has been met with both support and skepticism. While the alliance promises greater independence and self-determination for its member states, it also raises questions about the long-term stability and economic viability of the region. Critics argue that moving away from ECOWAS could lead to isolation, particularly given the bloc’s role in promoting economic integration and stability in West Africa. However, for many in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali, the benefits of sovereignty and resistance to external influence outweigh the risks.
The departure from ECOWAS and the establishment of the AES is a bold move that reflects the changing geopolitical dynamics in West Africa. As the region continues to navigate challenges such as political instability, economic underdevelopment, and security threats, the AES aims to offer an alternative vision for governance and cooperation among Sahel nations. Its members are determined to strengthen their bonds and shape their own future without the constraints imposed by external powers.
As negotiations with ECOWAS continue and the new alliance begins to take shape, the coming months will reveal whether the AES can successfully deliver on its promises of sovereignty, unity, and development. For now, the streets of Niamey and other towns in Niger remain filled with hope and optimism, as citizens embrace the potential of a new regional order in the heart of Africa.
Source: African News Agency
About The Author
