The trade liberalization policy of ECOWAS is aimed at

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks about the aim of ECOWAS's trade liberalization policy. The key phrase is "trade liberalization," which is an economic idea.

Step 2: Explain the concept

• ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) was founded in 1975 (Treaty of Lagos) by countries including Nigeria, Ghana, and others.
• Trade liberalization means removing or reducing barriers to trade, such as tariffs, quotas, and customs duties, so that goods and services move freely among member countries.
• The goal is to create a larger, shared market, which boosts trade, production, and growth. This is called economic integration.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Fostering unity and peace among member states: This is a political and security aim (for example, ECOMOG and conflict resolution), not the purpose of trade policy.
• B. Taking a common stand on world issues: This is about diplomacy and political cooperation, not trade.
• C. Promoting economic integration: This matches. Removing trade barriers links the economies of member states.
• D. Ensuring cultural cooperation: This is a social and cultural aim, unrelated to trade policy.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. promoting economic integration.

Exam tip: Match the keyword in the question to the type of answer. "Trade," "tariffs," and "liberalization" point to economic answers. Words like "peace," "unity," or "culture" point to political or social aims. Also remember that the "E" in ECOWAS stands for Economic, so economic integration is its core purpose.