In a significant regional development, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State hosted a meeting of the BRACED (Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo, and Delta) Commission on Thursday, where he emerged as the newly elected chairman of the Commission. The closed-door meeting, held at the Edo State Government House in Benin City, saw the participation of Governors Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Sim Fubara (Rivers), Umo Bassey Eno (Akwa Ibom), and the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme, representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Commissioners of Budget and Planning from the six states were also present.
Governor Obaseki addressed reporters after the meeting, highlighting its significance as the first gathering in the new dispensation. Emphasizing the need to address critical challenges facing the South-South region, Obaseki explained that the Director-General of the Commission presented an overview of the work accomplished in various sectors since its inception, covering agriculture, power, education, environment, and sports.
The chairman disclosed that the Council acknowledged the urgency of collectively accelerating the development of the states, expressing support for the imperatives of South-South economic cooperation and integration as a practical approach to fostering economic development in the region.
The communiqué issued after the meeting outlined several resolutions, including the determination to foster regional economic cooperation and integration for sustainable development. The Council proposed the establishment of the BRACED Business Council to enhance partnerships with businesses and attract investments into the region. Furthermore, the Council committed to engaging the Federal Government on crucial infrastructure development, such as roads, rail, and seaports, and collaborating on national security management.
Governor Obaseki affirmed the Council’s commitment to working with the President of the Federal Government of Nigeria to improve the standard of living in the South-South region. He stressed the need for a closer relationship with other regions to create economic corridors beneficial to the South-South.
The Council directed the Commissioners of Environment and Attorney-General of States to address climate issues, particularly those affecting mangrove swamps. Additionally, the Council pledged to work with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to ensure its activities benefit the BRACED states.
In concluding remarks, Governor Obaseki directed the Director-General to implement the decisions made during the meeting and report back to the Council before the next scheduled meeting in March 2024, which will be hosted in Bayelsa State by Governor Douye Diri.
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