South-West Governors Meet in Ibadan to Discuss Regional Security and Development
A closed-door meeting of the South-West states’ governors was held on Monday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The meeting, attended by governors from the six states in the region, aimed to address pressing issues affecting the area. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, who chairs the regional forum, was in attendance, along with governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, and host governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo.
The meeting took place at the Oyo State Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, where Governor Makinde’s office is located. Although the reason for the emergency meeting was not disclosed, it is believed to be related to the current security situation in the country, including recent kidnappings in Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara states. The governors are expected to discuss ways to enhance regional security, fast-track infrastructure development, and strengthen integration under the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN).
Sources indicate that the meeting will focus on reviewing collaborative security initiatives, including the operations of the Amotekun Corps, to improve its capacity in addressing emerging challenges. The governors will also deliberate on the security threats facing the region and explore ways to bolster the corps’ effectiveness. The Amotekun Corps is a regional security outfit established to complement the efforts of federal security agencies in maintaining law and order in the South-West.
The meeting comes at a time when the country is grappling with rising insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. The South-West region has not been immune to these challenges, with incidents of kidnapping and armed robbery reported in recent times. The governors’ meeting is seen as a proactive step towards addressing these security concerns and promoting regional development.
The outcome of the meeting is expected to have significant implications for the region’s security and development. As the governors continue to work together to address the challenges facing the South-West, their efforts are likely to have a positive impact on the region’s economy and the well-being of its citizens. Further updates on the meeting’s outcome are expected in the coming days.