By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa
The Ijaw National Congress (INC) Worldwide has called on governors of the South-South geopolitical zone to take steps toward revitalising the BRACED Commission, noting that doing so would help advance regional cooperation and development.
The BRACED Commission—representing Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo, and Delta States—was established over a decade ago to promote joint development initiatives in the region but has been largely inactive in recent years.
In a statement signed by its President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, the INC said the Commission’s reactivation would help strengthen economic collaboration and provide a coordinated approach to development planning across the South-South.
According to the organisation, the recent political alignment of the six governors under the All Progressives Congress (APC) presents an opportunity for renewed regional cooperation.
Okaba said the time was right for the states to work together to advance shared development objectives, noting that regional collaboration had the potential to deliver significant benefits.
The INC outlined several proposals for consideration, including:
Convening a South-South Governors’ Summit focused on formally reactivating the BRACED Commission and adopting a development framework for the region.
Strengthening the BRACED Secretariat by enhancing its administrative structure, funding, and technical capacity to coordinate regional projects.
Presenting a 5-year Regional Integrated Development Plan with measurable targets, including joint efforts on infrastructure such as the East-West Road and a proposed regional railway initiative.
Establishing a South-South Investment and Development Authority to drive investments in power, modular refineries, gas optimisation, and the maritime economy.
Launching a coordinated regional security initiative aimed at enhancing safety and environmental protection.
Okaba noted that the South-South region plays a significant role in Nigeria’s economy, adding that improved cooperation among the states could further support development efforts.
He said the INC would continue to advocate constructive engagement and collaboration aimed at advancing the welfare of people across the region.
“The opportunity before the region is substantial,” he said. “We believe that renewed cooperation through the BRACED framework can support long-term development.”
He added that the INC looks forward to positive steps from the governors toward strengthening regional institutions.
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