By Naomi Omorowa
In a significant step towards fostering regional economic cooperation and integration, the Commissioners for Finance and Commissioners for Budget and Economic Planning of the BRACED Member States (Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, Cross River, Edo and Delta) convened in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to reinforce the Commission’s objectives and to accelerate progress towards a robust regional economy that would benefit the people of the South-South Zone of Nigeria.
The Edo State Commissioner for Finance Mrs. Adaze Aguele-Kalu who attended the meeting, emphasized the Commission’s goals of driving regional economic cooperation and integration for sustainable development. She highlighted the establishment of the BRACED Business Council, which is designed to strengthen collaboration, enhance the business environment, and attract investors and businesses to the region.
Mrs. Aguele-Kalu showcased the achievements of the Obaseki-led Administration in Edo State to include human capacity development, infrastructure improvements, educational advancements, renewable energy initiatives, security enhancements, mechanized agriculture, advancements in financial management, amongst others.
She emphasized the development of long-term masterplans and the adoption of technology to streamline operations. The Commissioner’s presentation served as a model for other member states, as plan to replicate Edo State’s progress to ensure uniformity among the BRACED states was adopted.
In a goodwill message, the Edo State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Osilama Okuofu, who was unavoidably absent, praised the recent support given by Governor Godwin Obaseki to collaborate with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in staff training for enumeration and data collection for the State GDP. According to him, the initiative will enhance macroeconomic planning and economic development in the State and Region. He encouraged other BRACED member states to establish similar measures to ensure cohesion in the Region’s economic growth trajectory.
Hon. Okuofu averred that the establishment of a State Bureau of Statistics will foster closer ties with other states in the Sub-region and the Centre, leading to more effective regional economic cooperation and integration. His message reaffirmed Edo State’s commitment to the BRACED Commission’s objectives and its dedication to driving regional economic growth and development.
The BRACED Commission, which was established in 1999 by the Governors of the six South-South states in Nigeria, aims to create a strong regional economy through economic cooperation and integration, leading to sustainable development and collective benefits for the people of the Region.
The meeting in Uyo reaffirms the commitment of the BRACED member states to work together towards a prosperous and sustainable future for the Region. As the Commission continues to drive regional economic cooperation and integration, the people of the Region should expect improved economic opportunities, enhanced quality of life, and a brighter future.
