By Ikechukwu Nnochiri, ABUJA

The West African Civil Society Forum, WACSOF, has expressed deep concern over what it described as evolving political, security and economic landscape of the region following the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS.

The group, in a statement it made available to newsmen in Abuja, noted that the pullout of the three countries posed a great challenge to regional integration efforts, said there was need for urgent dialogue and collaboration to safeguard West Africa’s stability and development.

It stressed that without broader regional coordination, “terrorist groups may exploit divisions to strengthen their foothold.”

Consequently, WACSOF called for renewed cooperation between ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Alliance of Sahel States, AES, to ensure a unified response to security threats and enhance intelligence-sharing mechanisms.

The statement, which was signed by its General Secretary, Mr. James Ugochukwu, read in part: “The departure of these three Sahelian nations from ECOWAS has sparked uncertainties regarding security coordination, economic cooperation, and governance in the region.

“The formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) by these countries introduces a parallel regional bloc that may complicate efforts to address pressing issues such as terrorism, trade, and migration.

“While ECOWAS has long served as a pillar of regional unity, this exit signals growing dissatisfaction with its approaches to security and governance. WACSOF urges ECOWAS and AES leaders to maintain open channels of communication to prevent further fragmentation and ensure collaborative efforts in tackling shared challenges.

“The security situation in West Africa remains dire, with extremist groups such as Boko Haram, the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS), and Jama’at Nasr alIslam wal Muslimin (JNIM) expanding their operations.

“The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS raises concerns about coordinated counterterrorism efforts, as these nations play critical roles in the fight against insurgency in the Sahel.

“West Africa stands at a critical juncture, and the path forward must be one of collaboration, not division. WACSOF urges ECOWAS and AES leaders to engage in constructive dialogue, prioritize peace and stability, and reaffirm their commitment to regional integration.

“The challenges ahead are immense, but with a united approach, West Africa can navigate this transition and emerge stronger.

“WACSOF remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for the interests of West African citizens and will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated region,” it added.