By DAYO ADESULU
Regional Leaders Unite to Strengthen Security and Ensure Food Stability
Governors from the South-West Governors Forum have agreed to establish a special security outfit to tackle banditry, ISWAP threats, and other crimes in the region.
In addition, the governors have pledged to set up joint food hubs to curb the rising cost of food and prevent price manipulation by middlemen.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State made this announcement after a closed-door meeting held at the Lagos House, Ikeja, where an 11-point communiqué was issued.
Governors in Attendance
The meeting was attended by:
- Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos)
- Seyi Makinde (Oyo)
- Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo)
- Biodun Oyebaniji (Ekiti)
- Dapo Abiodun (Ogun)
- Ademola Adeleke (Osun)
The discussion centered on security, agriculture, food security, economic cooperation, and the South-West Development Commission (SWDC).
South-West Governors Condemn ISWAP Threat, Strengthen Security Measures
Addressing regional security concerns, the governors commended the relative peace and stability in the South-West, especially during the recent festive season.
“The Forum strongly condemns any security threats posed by ISWAP and other criminal elements in the South-West,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
To enhance security, the governors resolved to:
Establish a Joint Surveillance Monitoring Team to oversee regional security. Improve collaboration between state security agencies, local vigilante groups, and federal law enforcement. Strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms among state Special Advisers on Security.
South-West Development Commission (SWDC) to be Based in Ibadan
The South-West Development Commission (SWDC), recently approved by the Federal Government and Senate, will have its headquarters at Cocoa House, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The governors praised the Odu’a Investment Company Ltd. for effectively managing joint assets in the region over the past five years.
Combatting Food Inflation: Joint Food Hubs and Price Monitoring
Recognizing the urgent need for food security, the governors agreed to curb food inflation by:
Establishing a State Food Inflation Joint Monitoring Team to track and prevent price manipulation. Creating Aggregation Centers and Food Hubs to boost inter-state agricultural collaboration and stabilize prices. Partnering with the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission to drive industrialization and infrastructural development across the region.
Conclusion: A Unified Approach to Development and Security
With growing concerns over regional security and rising food costs, the South-West Governors Forum is taking proactive steps to ensure safety, economic stability, and agricultural sustainability in the region.
