In a major shake-up for West Africa, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have officially withdrawn from ECOWAS, the regional bloc confirmed on Wednesday. The move marks the end of a yearlong effort by the group to prevent what many see as an unprecedented split.

Despite the exit, ECOWAS has stated it will “keep its doors open” for the three nations. The bloc has urged its members to continue offering them membership perks, such as free movement across the region with ECOWAS passports.

The decision to leave comes after the three countries, all led by military juntas, announced their withdrawal earlier this year. They’ve since formed the Alliance of Sahel States, their own security partnership, and cut military ties with Western allies like the U.S. and France, turning instead to Russia for support.

ECOWAS President Omar Alieu Touray emphasized that the bloc still aims to collaborate with the departing countries to address pressing regional challenges, including the growing threat of extremist violence. “We hope to work together for the stability and development of the region,” he said during a press conference in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja.

However, experts warn this split could deepen ECOWAS’s legitimacy crisis. Ulf Laessing, head of the Sahel program at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, noted that the departure of three of its poorest members could reinforce public perceptions that the bloc has failed to deliver on its promises.

ECOWAS, formed in 1975 to promote economic integration, has faced criticism in recent years for its struggles to reverse military coups and address citizens’ concerns about inequality. “People see it as serving the interests of leaders, not the masses,” said Oge Onubogu of the Wilson Center think tank.

This marks the first time in ECOWAS’s 50-year history that member states have withdrawn in such a manner. The move could complicate efforts to restore democracy and stabilize the increasingly fragile region. The bloc has also reminded its members to treat goods and services from the three countries in line with ECOWAS regulations, ensuring ongoing cooperation.

As West Africa navigates this new chapter, the future of regional unity remains uncertain.