In a decisive move to strengthen regional stability and development, governors of the South West today convened for the South West Governors’ Forum meeting, addressing key challenges affecting the six-state region. The discussions centered on security, agriculture, and economic advancement, with leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to unified progress.
A major resolution from the meeting was the establishment of a South West Security Fund, to be managed under the DAWN Commission. This dedicated fund aims to provide sustainable support for regional security initiatives. The Forum also approved the creation of a digital intelligence-sharing platform that will enhance communication and coordination among security agencies across the states, improving response time and strategic planning.
Governors emphasized the need for enhanced forest surveillance, citing forests as hotspots for criminal activities. They called for Federal Government assistance in deploying Forest Guards, while states would be responsible for providing the necessary manpower to ensure efficient operations.
The Forum also addressed the issue of unregulated interstate migration, noting its security implications. To tackle this, the governors agreed to work closely with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to improve identification systems and strengthen border monitoring across the region.
Growing concerns over illegal mining were discussed, with the governors stressing the need for stricter licensing procedures and more robust enforcement mechanisms to curb the rising risks associated with unauthorized mining activities.
Reiterating their long-standing stance, the governors once again expressed strong support for the establishment of State Police, describing it as a crucial reform needed to secure lives and property effectively.
As Chairman of the Forum, Governor Jide Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the region’s collective resolve: the enduring strength of the South West lies in its unity, and the governors remain committed to building a safer, more prosperous region for all
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