South West govs form joint team to tackle terrorism, food insecurity

By Lukman Olabiyi

The South West Governors’ Forum has announced plans to tackle growing security concerns posed by terrorists and address food insecurity through regional collaboration.

In a crucial meeting held at Lagos House, Ikeja, on Thursday, the six governors of the region discussed pressing issues concerning agriculture, security, economic development, and the recent establishment of the South West Development Commission by the Federal Government.

The meeting was hosted by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who is also the forum’s chairman, and was attended by Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun).

The forum deliberated on strengthening security in the region amidst increasing threats from terrorists.

The governors agreed to appoint special advisers on security in each state and set up a joint surveillance monitoring team to coordinate security efforts across the South West.

They also pledged to deploy advanced technologies, including aerial surveillance systems, to improve security operations and enhance intelligence-sharing between local security outfits and federal enforcement agencies.

The governors condemned any threats to the region’s security and emphasised the importance of collaboration between the Nigerian Police and local security forces.

They also called for vigilance and continued peaceful coexistence among citizens in the region.

In a bid to combat food insecurity, the forum declared its intention to establish a Food Security Joint Monitoring Team to foster inter-state cooperation and mitigate rising food prices.

The forum condemned the activities of middlemen causing food inflation and also unveiled measures to ensure food security, including improving logistics and working together as a region to reduce economic inflation.

The governors praised the Federal Government for its role in stabilising the economy, particularly the successful implementation of the student loan scheme, which has benefited South West students.

They also acknowledged the efforts of Oodua Investment Company Ltd in managing regional assets, including the redevelopment of the Premier Hotel in Ibadan and plans for the Lagos Airport Hotel.

The meeting also covered the ongoing progress of the South West Development Commission, with the governors agreeing to support the location of its headquarters in Ibadan once legislation is finalised.

The forum ended with a commitment to continue working together on key regional issues and strengthening collaborative efforts for the overall development of the South West.