Aims and Objectives

To promote economic co-operation and zonal integration, raise the living standards of the peoples of the zone, maintain and enhance economic stability, foster closer relations among the “BRACED” States and contribute to the progress, prosperity and development of Nigeria.

In order to achieve the aims set out in above, and in accordance with the relevant provisions of this Agreement, “BRACED” shall, in stages, ensure the following:

1. The harmonization and co-ordination of “BRACED” States policies and the promotion of economic co-operation and integration programmes, projects and activities, particularly in food and agriculture, natural resources and industry, transport and communications, energy and trade, human resources and education, culture, science and technology, health, tourism and legal matters;
2. The harmonization and co-ordination of policies for the protection of the environment;
3. The promotion of the establishment of joint production enterprises;
4. The promotion of joint ventures by private sector and Public Private Partnership enterprises and other economic operators, leading to the development of a strong and virile private sector;
5. The adoption of measures for the integration of the private sectors, particularly the creation of an enabling environment to promote small and medium scale enterprises;
6. The establishment of an enabling legal environment;
7. The promotion of balanced development of the region, paying attention to the special problems of each “BRACED” State;
8. The encouragement and strengthening of relations and the promotion of the flow of information particularly among rural populations, women and youth organizations and socio-professional organizations such as associations of the media, business men and women, workers, and trade unions;The establishment of a Fund for Co-operation and Development; and
9. Any other activity that “BRACED” States may decide to undertake jointly with a view to attaining the objectives of this Agreement.