On January 29, 2024, the three countries led by military regimes formally notified ECOWAS of their desire for “immediate” withdrawal. But the texts of the West African organisation required one year’s notice for it to be effective.

Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger are now united in a confederation called the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
Their military rulers accuse ECOWAS of having imposed “inhuman, illegal and illegitimate” sanctions against them after the coups that brought them to power.

It added that goods and services from the three countries would still be treated under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy. Additionally, citizens of the three countries would retain their “right of visa-free movement, residence, and establishment in accordance with ECOWAS protocols until further notice.”

ECOWAS noted that these measures aim to “avoid confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of our people during this transition period.” It also announced that a structure has been set up to facilitate discussions on the future relationship between the bloc and the three countries.
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/01/just-in-burkina-faso-niger-mali-have-left-but-citizens-privileges-remain-ecowas/