Southern Governors and members of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council convened in Ogun State on Wednesday to discuss regional security, governance, and development, concluding the meeting with a unified approach to significant national and regional issues.
In a joint communique, the leaders expressed their support for President Bola Tinubu, acknowledging his efforts in stabilizing the economy, enhancing governance, and advancing critical infrastructure projects nationwide.
They reiterated their long-standing call for a Southern presidency, emphasizing their commitment to equity, balance, and national cohesion.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a post on his X account, stated, “We passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu and restated our support for a Southern presidency.
“We reaffirmed our commitment to a safer and more united South, expressed our condolences on recent national security losses, and acknowledged the President’s efforts in stabilizing the economy and advancing major infrastructure projects.
“We agreed on key steps, including establishing a zonal security fund, improving intelligence sharing, strengthening community security outfits, involving traditional rulers more formally in security, and addressing illegal mining and land-related risks.
“Above all, we assured our citizens that the South remains united and committed to peace, cooperation, and progress.”
The forum expressed condolences to the families of security personnel and civilians who have lost their lives in recent security incidents, emphasizing that the safety and stability of the region remain paramount.
To enhance regional security, the governors and traditional rulers agreed on several strategic initiatives, including the creation of a zonal security fund to support coordinated efforts across the South.
They also endorsed improved intelligence sharing among states, stronger community-based security organizations, and a more formal role for traditional rulers in security management and early warning systems.
The leaders committed to addressing emerging threats linked to illegal mining, land conflicts, and other activities that jeopardize peace and development in Southern communities.
They acknowledged that traditional institutions and enhanced inter-state collaboration will be crucial in detecting and responding to these challenges.
Reaffirming their unity, the governors and traditional rulers assured citizens that the South remains steadfast in its pursuit of peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.
They characterized the Ogun meeting as a demonstration of regional solidarity and a renewed commitment to enhancing the welfare of Southern Nigerians.
Leave a Reply