The Southern Governors’ Forum has thrown its weight behind the administration of President Bola Tinubu and also backed its position on a Southern presidency come 2027.
The governors made the declaration at a meeting held in Ogun State, during which they also called for the creation of State Police to address rising security challenges.
According to the Southern Governors’ Forum chairman, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, their stand on a Southern presidency aligns with an accord reached in Asaba before the 2023 elections that produced President Tinubu.
Abiodun said, “We hosted the Joint Meeting of the Southern Governors’ Forum and the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council today in Iperu, where we met with our brother-Governors and esteemed traditional rulers to address key issues affecting Southern Nigeria. Our discussions focused on security, governance, economic stability, and strengthening regional collaboration.
“We reaffirmed our commitment to a united and secure Nigeria and extended condolences to Mr. President over the recent losses in Borno, Kebbi, Kwara, and Niger States. We also expressed appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership in stabilising the economy, reducing inflation, supporting security agencies, and driving landmark infrastructure projects.
“Together, we adopted major resolutions, including the creation of a zonal security fund, improved intelligence-sharing systems, sustained advocacy for State Police, a unified resident identification programme, stronger regional security outfits, better land and mining governance, and enhanced support for traditional councils.
“We joined the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council in passing a vote of confidence in Mr. President and restated our support for a Southern President in line with the Asaba Accord. We reassured all citizens that Southern Nigeria remains united, peaceful, and committed to working collaboratively for the progress and prosperity of our region and the entire country.”