Reiterating its long-standing demand for State Police, the Southern Governor’s Forum noted that community-based and regional outfits have proven the need for decentralised policing.
The communique reads further: “The Forum pledged increased support for local security groups, hunter associations and community surveillance units through improved logistics and equipment.
“In addition, member states were encouraged to work with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to develop a unified resident identification system and to collaborate with traditional rulers on regulating land allocation to prevent practices that could heighten security risks.
The Forum similarly pledged to intensify efforts to protect lives and property across the Southern states. It also resolved to clamp down on illegal mining, citing its ecological dangers through joint efforts with environmental agencies and traditional councils.
“The SGF extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the recent killing of military personnel in Borno State and the spate of mass abductions in Kebbi, Kwara and Niger States.
“It also commended the successful rescue efforts that followed, describing them as a security strategy that is becoming more coordinated, more intelligence-driven, and more responsive.
“This act of leadership reassures citizens that the safety of our children remains a top national priority and that Nigeria will not allow criminals, insurgents, or opportunistic elements to undermine the nation’s stability
“The President’s swift action reminds us that leadership is measured not only in policy decisions but also in empathy, urgency, and decisive intervention.
“The Forum lauded President Tinubu’s “bold and visionary” economic reforms, noting improvements in foreign exchange stability, a sustained seven-month decline in inflation, and easing food prices. It also applauded ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road and the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway, as well as efforts to upgrade Police and NSCDC training facilities”.
The Forum also passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praising his leadership and commitment to national stability, welcoming the launch of the Renewed Hope Ward Initiative, which is expected to positively impact more than five million residents across Southern Nigeria.
The Meeting held in Iperu, Ogun state, had in attendance 13 governors including, Francis Nwifiru of Ebonyi, Charles Soludo of Anambra State, Alex Otti of Abia state, Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Biodun Oyebamiji of Ekiti State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, Peter Mbah of Enugu state, while the governors of Edo State, Osun State, Oyo state, Cross River State, were represented by their Deputy.
Traditional rulers at the meeting include the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Co-Chairman and Secretary of the traditional rulers’ council ,the Dein of Agbor, Benjamin Ikenchukwu Keagborekuzi, and the Obi of Obinugwu, Eze Ilomuanya, and other traditional rulers from the southern region.
The forum pledged to continue speaking with one voice while collaborating with the Federal Government to promote peace and development.