Ogona Anita
Governors and traditional rulers from Southern Nigeria closed ranks on Wednesday, unveiling a comprehensive blueprint to tackle regional challenges and deepen cooperation on security, economic resilience, and governance.
The joint meeting of the Southern Governors’ Forum and the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, held in Iperu, Ogun State, saw the adoption of a multi-pronged strategy aimed at strengthening stability and development across the region.
A key outcome of the high-level deliberation was a collective vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The leaders acknowledged the President’s leadership and commitment to national stability and economic reforms amidst the country’s current challenges.
In response to persistent security threats, the forum agreed on several decisive measures. Central to the new security framework is the establishment of a zonal security fund to finance coordinated operations across state lines.
The plan also includes:
Enhancing intelligence-sharing between security agencies and state governments.
A sustained, coordinated advocacy for the creation of state police.
Implementing a harmonised resident identification programme to aid planning and security management.
Strengthening existing regional security outfits and improving inter-state collaboration.
Beyond security, the leaders committed to improving governance and economic management. They resolved to tackle illegal resource exploitation by strengthening land and mining governance to promote sustainable practices.
Recognising the critical role of traditional institutions, the forum pledged greater institutional support and recognition for traditional councils, positioning them as essential partners in conflict resolution, grassroots mobilisation, and governance.
The meeting reinforced the region’s dedication to speaking with one voice on national issues. The forum reiterated its resolve to advance the shared political, economic, and security interests of Southern Nigeria and to work constructively with the Federal Government for the nation’s progress.
Anambra State Governor and Vice Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, actively participated in the discussions. He later reaffirmed his state’s commitment to the collective agenda, emphasizing that “stronger regional cooperation, institutional reforms, and people-centred policies are essential for building a safer, more prosperous, and united Nigeria.”
