By Barth Ikiebe.
,,,,Pass a vote of confidence on president.
Southern Governors and members of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council have unveiled a unified security strategy for the region.
In a joint statement at the end of their meeting in Ogun State on Wednesday, the leaders passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu, acknowledging his efforts in stabilising the economy, improving governance, and advancing key infrastructure projects across the country.
They also reiterated their long-standing advocacy for a Southern presidency, stating that the region remains committed to equity, balance, and national cohesion.
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on his X account on Wednesday, said, “We passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu and restated our support for a Southern presidency.
“We reaffirmed our commitment to a safer and more united South, expressed our condolences on recent national security losses, and acknowledged the President’s efforts in stabilising the economy and advancing major infrastructure projects.”
“We agreed on key steps, including setting up a zonal security fund, improving intelligence sharing, strengthening community security outfits, involving traditional rulers more formally in security, and tackling illegal mining and land-related risks.
“Above all, we assured our citizens that the South remains united and committed to peace, cooperation, and progress.”
The forum expressed condolences to the families of security personnel and civilians who have lost their lives in recent security incidents and emphasised that the safety and stability of the region remain top priorities.
To strengthen regional security, the governors and traditional rulers agreed on several strategic steps, including the establishment of a zonal security fund to support coordinated efforts across the South.
They also endorsed enhanced intelligence sharing among states, stronger community-based security organizations, and a more formal role for traditional rulers in security management and early warning structures.
The leaders also committed to addressing emerging risks linked to illegal mining, land conflicts, and other activities that threaten peace and development in Southern communities.
They noted that traditional institutions and expanded inter-state collaboration will be key in detecting and responding to these challenges.
Reaffirming their unity, the governors and traditional rulers assured citizens that the South remains resolute in its pursuit of peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.
They described the Ogun meeting as a demonstration of regional solidarity and a renewed commitment to improving the welfare of Southern Nigerians.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
