Lagos, Nigeria — The six governors of Nigeria’s South-West region convened at the Lagos House in Ikeja for a high-stakes zonal meeting aimed at addressing critical issues affecting the region. The meeting, hosted by Lagos State Governor and Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, focused on key areas such as food security, economic collaboration, agriculture, security, and the establishment of the South-West Development Commission.
The gathering was attended by Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun). The closed-door meeting, which began at 12:15 PM, followed the arrival of all governors, with Governor Makinde being the first to arrive at 10:55 AM.
Key Agenda Items
- Food Security and Agriculture:
With rising food prices and concerns over food scarcity, the governors are expected to discuss strategies to boost agricultural productivity and ensure sustainable food supply across the region. This includes exploring partnerships with private sector players and leveraging technology to modernize farming practices. - Economic Collaboration:
The meeting will explore ways to strengthen economic ties among the South-West states, including the creation of a regional economic blueprint to attract investments, create jobs, and enhance infrastructure development. - Security:
Security remains a top priority, with the governors expected to review existing measures and propose new strategies to combat crime, terrorism, and communal clashes. The establishment of a regional security outfit, similar to Amotekun, may also be discussed. - South-West Development Commission:
The proposed commission aims to coordinate and implement development projects across the region. Its establishment is seen as a critical step toward addressing infrastructural deficits and promoting inclusive growth.
A Follow-Up to Previous Engagements
Today’s meeting is a continuation of the forum’s efforts to foster regional integration and development. It follows a similar gathering held on June 10, 2024, where Governor Sanwo-Olu was unanimously elected as Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum.
Under Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, the forum has prioritized policies aimed at strengthening regional development, including the promotion of intra-regional trade, improved transportation networks, and enhanced collaboration on security matters.
A Unified South-West for Sustainable Development
The South-West region, often regarded as Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, faces significant challenges, including food insecurity, unemployment, and infrastructural gaps. The governors’ meeting underscores the importance of collective action in addressing these issues.
- Food Security: With Nigeria’s inflation rate hovering at 28.9% and food prices skyrocketing, the region’s focus on agriculture is timely. Initiatives like large-scale farming, agro-processing zones, and farmer support programs could help stabilize food prices and ensure availability.
- Economic Collaboration: By pooling resources and expertise, the South-West states can attract foreign investments, boost industrialization, and create job opportunities for their growing population.
- Security: A unified approach to security will not only protect lives and property but also create a conducive environment for economic activities.
- South-West Development Commission: If established, the commission could serve as a catalyst for regional development, ensuring that projects are implemented efficiently and equitably.
A Step Toward Regional Prosperity
The South-West Governors Forum’s meeting in Lagos is a testament to the region’s commitment to unity and progress. By addressing critical issues like food security, economic collaboration, and security, the governors are laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and sustainable future.
As the meeting progresses, stakeholders across the region will be watching closely, hoping that the outcomes will translate into tangible benefits for the people of the South-West
