In a recent meeting of the South West Governors’ Forum, a new chairman was elected to lead the regional body. The forum, which convened at the Lagos House in Alausa, Ikeja, paid tribute to their late former chairman, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN, CON, whose passing was mourned.
During the discussions, the governors reached several key resolutions aimed at addressing pressing issues affecting their states. Prominent among these was their gratitude to the House of Representatives and the South West Caucus for their efforts on the South West Development Commission Bill, urging the Senate to expedite its passage.
The forum also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project and other ongoing initiatives, calling for further road rehabilitation efforts by the Federal Government.
On the matter of security, the governors expressed satisfaction with the relative peace in the South West region, advocating for the establishment of State Police. They also emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between security agencies and the Amotekun Corps.
Addressing the minimum wage issue, the South West Governors pledged their support for ongoing discussions, with an expectation of fair outcomes that reflect the principles of fiscal federalism.
The forum also endorsed the Federal Government’s efforts on mineral resources, urging for increased collaboration with states in granting leases to investors. Moreover, they agreed to bolster the efficiency of the DAWN Commission, with a focus on fostering economic integration within the region.
These resolutions and decisions underscore the South West Governors’ commitment to the development and prosperity of their states, as they work in tandem with the federal government and other stakeholders.