Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has been elected the new Chairman of the South West Governors’ Forum following a pivotal meeting held today at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja.
The election comes in the wake of the passing of the previous chairman, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN, CON.
In his remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu honoured Akeredolu’s memory, expressing deep condolences and reflecting on his impactful leadership.
“May his soul rest in peace,” Sanwo-Olu stated solemnly.
The forum’s meeting addressed a range of critical issues affecting the South West states, leading to several significant resolutions.
Key among these was the call for the Senate to expedite the passage of the South West Development Commission Bill, following commendable efforts by the House of Representatives and the South West Caucus.
In addition, the forum praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for initiating the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project and other infrastructure developments. However, the governors emphasized the need for further road rehabilitation efforts by the Federal Government to improve regional connectivity and economic growth.
Security was a major topic of discussion. The governors acknowledged the prevailing peace in the South West and advocated for the establishment of State Police to enhance local security measures. They underscored the importance of collaboration between security agencies and the Amotekun Corps, a regional security outfit.
On economic matters, the forum expressed strong support for ongoing discussions about the Minimum Wage, highlighting the necessity for outcomes that respect fiscal federalism principles. Additionally, the governors endorsed federal initiatives on mineral resources, urging for enhanced state collaboration in granting leases to investors to stimulate economic activities.
The forum also agreed to enhance the operational efficiency of the DAWN Commission, with a renewed focus on economic integration among the South West states.
Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded the meeting by emphasizing that these decisions and collaborative efforts are aimed at advancing the development and prosperity of the South West region, ensuring a more secure, economically vibrant, and integrated future for its citizens.
Governors of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde; Osun State, Ademola Adeleke; Ondo State, Luky Aiyedatiwa, and Ekiti, AbiodunOyebanji, were all at the meeting.
INN-HOUSE☆ 