Heads of state of the Economic Community of West African States met in Abuja on Wednesday for an extraordinary summit focused on the political situations in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger — three member states currently governed by military juntas following coups in 2021, 2022 and 2023 respectively.

After six hours of discussions, the summit produced a declaration giving each country a maximum of 18 months to conduct credible elections and return to constitutional governance, with a phased sanctions regime that escalates every six months if progress is not demonstrated.

What happens if they don't comply

The first tier of sanctions — already in place — covers travel bans and asset freezes on junta leaders. If elections are not scheduled within six months, ECOWAS will proceed to financial sanctions targeting government-linked entities. A full trade embargo would be the final measure if no elections are held within 18 months.

Host President Tinubu, who chairs the ECOWAS Authority, expressed optimism that dialogue would prevail. "We want these countries back at this table as equals — as democratic nations. Sanctions are a last resort, not a first preference."