The basic aim of Economic Community of West African States is the

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks about the basic aim of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), which was founded in 1975 through the Treaty of Lagos.

Step 2: Explain the concept ECOWAS is a regional economic integration body. The main goal of such a body is to promote economic cooperation among its members. Its key objectives include:

• Promoting free trade and removing trade barriers (tariffs, quotas) among member states
• Allowing free movement of people, goods, and services
• Promoting economic development and regional integration
• Establishing a common external tariff and, eventually, a monetary union

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Discouragement of trade among member states: Wrong. This is the opposite of what ECOWAS aims to do.
• B. Encouragement of revolts against former colonial masters: Wrong. ECOWAS is an economic body, not a political movement against colonial powers.
• C. Establishment of its headquarters in each member state: Wrong. ECOWAS has one headquarters, in Abuja, Nigeria.
• D. Liberalization of trade among member states: Correct. Liberalizing trade means reducing or removing barriers so goods and services move freely between members. This is the core purpose of the community.

Step 4: Answer

Exam tip: For questions on regional economic bodies (ECOWAS, EU, OPEC, etc.), look for the option about cooperation, integration, or trade liberalization. Options that suggest conflict, discouraging trade, or something illogical (like a headquarters in every country) are almost always distractors.