Governors from Six States Unveil Ambitious Plans for Economic Growth and Integration
In a significant move towards revitalizing regional cooperation, the state governors of Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, and Delta (represented by the deputy), convened under the auspices of the BRACED Commission (Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, Cross River, Edo & Delta) in Benin City. The meeting which was hosted by Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, marked a strategic effort to reposition the Commission for enhanced socioeconomic development and integration.
Governor Obaseki, who was newly elected Chairman of the Commission, outlined the commitment of the governors of the South-South states to revive the original goals of the BRACED Commission. The focus is on fostering regional socioeconomic development and integration that will be mutually beneficial to the participating states.
Key Outcomes from the BRACED Commission Meeting:
- Constitutional Review Advocacy: The governors stressed the urgent need for a constitutional review to devolve more powers, resources, and responsibilities to the states. This, they believe, will facilitate faster economic growth, development, and ensure security and peaceful coexistence.
- Commitment to Regional Cooperation: The council pledged to position and strengthen the BRACED Commission to achieve the region’s goals for economic cooperation and integration. The ultimate beneficiaries, they emphasized, will be the region, its people, and the country.
- Resolution for Economic Cooperation: The governors resolved to foster economic cooperation and integration, aiming for sustainable development through the creation of a robust regional economy.
- Inauguration of BRACED Business Council: To enhance business climate and attract investors, the governors committed to establishing and inaugurating the BRACED Business Council.
- Engagement with Federal Government: There is a collective decision to engage with the federal government on crucial infrastructure development in the region. This includes roads, rail development (Lagos to Calabar fast train), decentralization, and rehabilitation of seaports, as well as national security management.
- Environmental Protection Initiatives: The Commissioners of Environment and Attorney-Generals of the States are directed to examine the feasibility of a regional environmental law and environmental blue carbon partnership. This initiative aims to protect the mangroves forest ecosystems of the South-South in collaboration with the federal government.
Challenges and the Way Forward:
Ambassador Joe Keshi, Director General of the Commission, acknowledged the challenges faced by the BRACED Commission since its establishment in 2011. He highlighted the areas of agriculture, education, environment, power, security, and sports as key sectors for improvement. Urging prompt action to address various issues, he emphasized the importance of overcoming challenges for the successful implementation of the Commission’s mandate.
The South-South governors’ commitment to revitalizing the BRACED Commission signals a new era of collaboration and concerted efforts towards regional development, economic growth, and integration. As the Commission takes prompt actions to address challenges, the Atlantic Post will continue to monitor and report on the progress of this landmark initiative.
