NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the six Governors of the Southwest region convened in Lagos State on Thursday, February 13, to discuss critical issues affecting the region and strategize for the future.
The South-West Governors’ Forum meeting, hosted by its Chairman and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, brought together Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun).
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Following the closed-door meeting, Governor Sanwo-Olu presented an 11-point communiqué, summarizing key resolutions reached by the Forum.
Key Resolutions from the Meeting:
1. Commendation for President Tinubu
The Forum applauded President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s economic reforms, particularly the stable supply of petroleum products and exchange rate stabilization. They urged Nigerians to support the government’s efforts in strengthening the economy.
2. Support for Student Loan Scheme
The Governors commended the successful implementation of the Student Loan Scheme under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND, which has benefited students in the region. They encouraged eligible students to leverage the initiative for higher education and vocational training.
3. Congratulations to Ondo State Governor
The Forum congratulated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on his victory in the Ondo State gubernatorial election held on November 16, 2024.
4. Commitment to Regional Security and Peace
The Forum acknowledged the efforts of Southwest Governors in maintaining peace and security, particularly during the festive season, and urged continuous efforts to foster regional stability.
5. Strong Condemnation of ISWAP Activities
The Governors condemned ISWAP’s presence and activities in parts of the Southwest, urging security agencies to heighten vigilance and collaboration with local security outfits to neutralize threats.
6. Establishment of Joint Security Surveillance Team
The Forum resolved to set up a Joint Security Surveillance Team across the region. This initiative will include:
– Deployment of advanced surveillance technology, including aerial monitoring.
– Strengthened collaboration between state security agencies, local security networks, and federal authorities.
7. Southwest Development Commission, SWDC, Headquarters
The Forum commended the Federal Government and the Senate for establishing the SWDC and agreed to situate its headquarters at Cocoa House, Ibadan, Oyo State.
8. Support for Odu’a Investment Company
The Forum acknowledged the contributions of Odu’a Investment Company Ltd. in managing joint regional assets. They applauded:
– The redevelopment of Premier Hotel, Ibadan, and the proposed redevelopment of Lagos Airport Hotel.
– The company’s investment plans in key economic sectors to drive sustainable growth.
9. Food Security Measures
Recognizing the need to curb food inflation, the Governors agreed to collaborate on policies ensuring food security in the region.
10. Measures to Control Food Price Inflation
Concerned about artificial price inflation by middlemen, the Forum decided to:
– Establish a State Food Inflation Joint Monitoring Team.
– Set up Aggregation Centers/Food Hubs to facilitate inter-state food distribution and stabilize prices.
11. Commendation for DAWN Commission
The Forum praised the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria, DAWN, Commission for its improved performance over the past year. They urged it to continue working with Southwest Commissioners for Agriculture on industrialization and infrastructure development.