…Tinubu’s reforms rebuilding Nigeria’s foundation, say governors

By Our Reporter 

Governors, ministers, traditional rulers and prominent leaders from the South-West region of Nigeria on Wednesday converged in Akure, Ondo State, to demand the devolution of powers, true federalism and renewed regional cooperation to drive development and strengthen democracy.

The high-level meeting, themed “Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future,” was hosted by Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, at The Dome, International Culture and Events Centre, Akure.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, in his opening remarks, described the dialogue as a defining moment for the region, calling for structural reforms that would grant states greater autonomy for development.

“Today, we stand at a threshold of history. Shall we continue with centralisation when true federalism demands devolution of powers?” he asked.

Aiyedatiwa stated that: “Strength without renewal fades. Dialogue must go beyond talk; it must birth action.”

The Governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for laying “a clear pathway for regional development” through economic reforms that have stabilised allocations to states and restored fiscal discipline.

He highlighted key federal projects in Ondo and across the region, including the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, Akure–Ado-Ekiti Dual Carriageway, the Ilaje Deep Sea Port, and the Ore–Ondo–Akure road, among others, describing them as evidence of renewed federal–state collaboration.

Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed Ondo State’s position as a hub of progressive politics and dialogue, stressing that the South-West must remain the vanguard of national development through shared vision and partnership.

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urged regional leaders to create a unified framework for development, saying the South-West had always been the nation’s torchbearer in innovation, governance and education.

“Today is the time for us to reclaim our heritage of innovation and excellence. The South-West can and will lead Nigeria’s rebirth,” Sanwo-Olu declared, praising President Tinubu’s economic reforms for stabilising the naira and attracting investments.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, represented by his deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, emphasised the role of dialogue in sustaining democracy.

He called for collective efforts to promote inclusion, accountability and peace across the region.

Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, represented by Senator Femi Okunrounmu, urged governors to prioritise collaboration over politics.

“When Osun innovates successfully, let Oyo adopt and adapt. When Lagos leads, let others follow. When Ondo comes up with solutions, let others adopt,” he said, describing the forum as a “living example of democracy in action.”

Former Osun State Governor and APC chieftain, Chief Bisi Akande, described Nigeria as being at a historic turning point, noting that President Tinubu’s fiscal and structural reforms were rebuilding the foundation of governance.

He called for genuine federalism and regional empowerment through the establishment of a Southwest Development Commission.

Traditional rulers including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye; the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Michael Gbadebo; and the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo, all lent their voices to calls for good governance and unity, urging leaders to confront corruption and prioritise the welfare of citizens.

The event featured thematic sessions with contributions from key federal ministers, including the Minister of Finance, Mr Wale Edun; the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola; the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu; and the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Tunji Alausa.

Among other dignitaries present were Ondo State Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Osun State Deputy Governor, Mr Kola Adewusi; Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal; and Ekiti State Secretary to the Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro.

Governor Aiyedatiwa described the dialogue as a call to action, urging the South-West to harness its shared heritage and innovative spirit to shape the future of Nigeria’s democracy and development.