The South West Governors’ Forum met in Ibadan to deliberate on key issues shaping the future of the region, with security, agriculture, and economic advancement dominating discussions.
Eko Hot News reports that the meeting marked a significant step toward strengthening the collective strategy of the South West, as the governors rolled out a series of coordinated measures aimed at improving safety, enhancing governance, and boosting development across the six states. Central to their resolution was the establishment of a South West Security Fund, to be managed under the DAWN Commission. This fund is expected to serve as a dedicated pool to finance regional security initiatives, ensuring that the South West is better positioned to respond to evolving threats.
Another major highlight of the meeting was the approval of a digital intelligence-sharing platform designed to improve real-time coordination among the states. By integrating technology into regional security management, the governors believe the South West will be more effective in combating criminal networks that operate across state boundaries. This step reflects a broader vision to build a more secure and technologically coordinated region.
The Forum also devoted significant attention to the growing challenges associated with forested areas in the South West. With forests increasingly exploited by criminal elements, the governors emphasised the need for enhanced forest surveillance. They called on the Federal Government to support the deployment of Forest Guards, while pledging to provide the necessary personnel at the state level. This collaboration, they noted, will reinforce efforts to reclaim and secure forest zones that are critical to the safety and economic stability of the South West.
Concerns over unregulated interstate migration were also raised during the meeting. The governors expressed worry about the security implications of poorly monitored movement across state borders. To address this, the Forum agreed to partner with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to improve identification processes and strengthen border monitoring across the South West. This initiative aims to ensure that migration is properly tracked and that security agencies can proactively respond to potential threats.
Illegal mining, a growing menace in several parts of the South West, also featured prominently in the resolutions reached. The governors highlighted the economic and environmental risks associated with unlicensed mining activities and agreed on the need for stricter licensing procedures, backed by strong enforcement mechanisms. By tackling illegal mining, they aim to protect communities, preserve natural resources, and ensure that mineral exploration in the South West proceeds lawfully and sustainably.
Reaffirming their long-standing position, the governors reiterated their unwavering support for the establishment of State Police, describing the reform as long overdue. They argued that policing at the state level is essential for addressing localised security issues and building a safer South West.
In closing, the Chairman of the Forum emphasised that the unity of the South West remains its greatest strength. He reaffirmed the commitment of all governors to work collectively toward building a safer, more secure, and more prosperous region for the millions who call the South West home.
