By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
Governors of the South West region of Nigeria have announced plans to establish a special security outfit to combat banditry and other criminal activities threatening the region’s stability.
This decision was reached during a closed-door meeting of the South West Governors’ Forum, held on Thursday at Lagos House, Ikeja, and hosted by the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The meeting, attended by Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun), focused on addressing pressing regional issues such as security, agriculture, food inflation, and economic collaboration.
The governors also deliberated on the operational framework for the newly established South West Development Commission.
In a communique issued at the end of the meeting, Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed that the governors are determined to counter any attempt by the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) to infiltrate the region, reaffirming their collective commitment to ensuring the safety and security of citizens.
The security outfit will serve as a coordinated regional response to rising security challenges.
As part of efforts to address the region’s growing food inflation and strengthen food security, the governors agreed to set up joint food hubs in their respective states.
These hubs are expected to enhance food production, streamline logistics, and reduce inflationary pressures on agricultural products.
A food inflation joint monitoring team will also be established to ensure these measures are effectively implemented.
In another significant development, the governors unanimously agreed that the headquarters of the South West Development Commission should be located in Ibadan, within the historic Cocoa House, a landmark owned by Odua Investment Company Limited.
They also commended the board and management of Odua Investment Limited for its ongoing efforts to reposition the company as a key driver of economic development in the region.
The governors expressed their appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his economic reforms, which have contributed to the stabilisation of the naira and ensured a steady supply of petrol across the country.
They acknowledged the president’s support for the establishment of the South West Development Commission and pledged their full cooperation in advancing its objectives.
This meeting follows a previous gathering held in Lagos on June 10, 2024, where Sanwo-Olu was unanimously appointed as Chairman of the South West Governors’ Forum.
Thursday’s discussions reinforced the governors’ commitment to fostering regional development and addressing common challenges collaboratively.
