Governors from Southern Nigeria, including Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara convened a joint meeting of the Southern Governors’ Forum and the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council in Iperu, Ogun State, hosted by Governor Dapo Abiodun.
Confirming the closed-door meeting in question statement posted on his X page on Wednesday, Abiodun said it focused on strengthening regional security cooperation, expanding economic opportunities, and advancing shared development priorities across the southern states.
Following their deliberations, the governors and traditional rulers adopted several resolutions aimed at strengthening regional stability and governance.
They agreed to establish a Zonal Security Fund to provide dedicated financing for security operations across the region.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for state police, stressing the need to decentralise the policing system for greater effectiveness. In addition, they resolved to improve intelligence-sharing mechanisms and to strengthen regional security outfits to enhance coordinated responses to threats.
The leaders further endorsed the creation of a unified resident identification programme to support better population management and security tracking.
They committed to improving land and mining governance, ensuring more transparent and sustainable oversight of natural resources.
They pledged to provide enhanced support for traditional councils, recognising their critical role in local administration and community cohesion.
The meeting was part of ongoing efforts to promote unity and coordinated development initiatives within the region.
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The forum joined the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council in passing a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu, and reaffirmed its support for a Southern President in line with the terms of the Asaba Accord.
They also extended condolences to the President over the recent losses reported in Borno, Kebbi, Kwara, and Niger States.
Furthermore, they expressed appreciation for Tinubu’s leadership in stabilising the economy, reducing inflation, supporting security agencies, and driving landmark infrastructure projects.
The governors and traditional rulers reassured all citizens that Southern Nigeria remains united, peaceful, and committed to collaborative work for the progress of the region and the country.
