The South-West Governors’ Forum has unveiled a series of far-reaching security and development initiatives aimed at strengthening regional safety, improving intelligence coordination, and safeguarding economic stability across the six states of the zone.
The resolutions were issued on Monday following a meeting of the governors of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti and Ondo States at the Governor’s Office, Ibadan. The leaders deliberated extensively on agriculture, economic development, internal security and emerging threats affecting the region.
In the communiqué, the Forum commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing reforms and renewed efforts to curb insecurity nationwide. They also expressed solidarity with the Federal Government over recent kidnappings in Kebbi, Kwara and Niger states, applauding the swift rescue of abducted students and worshippers.
Key Resolutions
1. Creation of South-West Security Fund
The governors approved the establishment of a South-West Security Fund (SWSF) to be housed under the DAWN Commission and managed by the security advisers of all six states. The committee is expected to meet monthly.
2. Digital Intelligence-Sharing Platform
The Forum agreed to launch a real-time, digital intelligence-sharing platform linking all states in the region. The system will exchange threat alerts, incident reports, cargo and traveller information, and support coordinated rapid responses.
3. Enhanced Forest Surveillance
Acknowledging the security risks posed by ungoverned forest areas, the governors called on the Federal Government to deploy forest guards across the South-West, with states providing personnel. They praised NSCDC operatives, hunters, Amotekun corps members and other security agencies for ongoing surveillance efforts.
4. Tackling Unregulated Interstate Migration
The Forum raised alarm over unmonitored movement across state borders, urging stricter checks, improved data collection and collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). States were encouraged to treat migration as a security priority.
5. Crackdown on Illegal Mining
Expressing concern over rising illegal mining activities, the governors demanded stronger licensing processes, better monitoring and firm enforcement against violators who exploit mining sites for criminal operations.
6. Strong Push for State Police
The Forum reaffirmed its position that the establishment of state police is overdue, declaring, “The time is now.”
7. Agriculture, Food Security and Climate Resilience
The governors praised federal interventions and commended farmers for boosting food production, which they said has helped stabilize prices across the region.
8. South-West Development Commission (SWDC)
The Forum thanked President Tinubu for creating the Commission and urged it to effectively execute its developmental mandate.
9. Commendation of DAWN Commission
The Commission received special praise for its contributions to regional integration and security coordination.
The governors concluded by urging residents of the South-West to remain united and committed to preserving the peace, cooperation and religious tolerance that define the region.