The outcome of the June 2024 Meeting of the Southern Governors Forum; See details
Southern Governors Announce Five-Point Development Agenda
Abiodun Takes Over as Forum Chairman, Soludo Named Vice Chairman
By Olayinka Olukoya and Wale Akinselure
June 25, 2024
At the recent Southern Governors Forum meeting, newly elected chairman Governor Dapo Abiodun unveiled a comprehensive five-point development agenda for the region. Governor Abiodun of Ogun State succeeds the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, while Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, assumes the role of vice chairman.
Governor Abiodun outlined the key issues on the agenda: Security, Infrastructure, Food Security and Agriculture, Transportation, and Devolution of Powers. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Abiodun emphasized the forum’s commitment to the socio-economic development of the Southern region, guided by the ‘Southern States Development Agenda.’
Addressing security as the top priority, Abiodun highlighted the governors’ support for state policing, stressing the necessity of regional security forces. He pointed out that state and community policing are crucial due to the federal police’s limitations in manpower, resources, and local knowledge.
Infrastructure development was another critical focus. Abiodun emphasized the goal of regional integration through a multi-modal transport system, including road, air, rail, and water transportation, to facilitate efficient movement of goods, services, and investments. He commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project, aligning with the forum’s infrastructure objectives.
Regarding food security, Abiodun acknowledged the high cost of food and emphasized the importance of boosting agriculture within the Southern states. He pointed out that the region’s vast arable land should be fully utilized to ensure self-sufficiency and support export-oriented agriculture.
Devolution of powers was also a significant agenda item. Abiodun called for the transfer of certain federal responsibilities to the states, including management of Trunk A roads and greater control over local resources and VAT collection. He asserted that such measures would reduce the states’ dependency on federal allocations.
To effectively implement these initiatives, the Southern governors agreed to hold quarterly meetings, rotating the host state to ensure inclusive participation and regional cohesion.
