By Eteteonline
As part of fresh initiatives to improve regional security and combat growing threats throughout Nigeria, southern governors and traditional leaders have announced the establishment of a zone security fund. The Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council and the Southern Governors’ Forum jointly met at Iperu, Ogun State, to make the decision.
Governors and respected traditional leaders from the area convened to discuss important issues impacting the South, with a focus on security, governance, economic stability, and improved regional cooperation. The meeting was hosted by Dapo Abiodun, the governor of Ogun State and chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum.
The meeting’s chair, Governor Abiodun, emphasized the critical need for digital surveillance, intelligence-driven security measures, and a Safe School Program for the entire region. Additionally, he praised President Bola Tinubu for his “transformative leadership.” He emphasized that security issues had surpassed centrally managed structures and restated their long-standing call for state police.
According to Abiodun, the establishment of state police is still an essential part of the group’s demand for effective grassroots security and true federalism.
“Our region has consistently advocated for a policing system that is closer to the people, more responsive to local realities, and better equipped to address the rapidly evolving threats we face.
“The recent incidents across the country reinforce the urgency of decentralising policing so that states can take direct responsibility for safeguarding their citizens.
“A unified Southern position on State Police will not only enhance intelligence gathering and early-warning capabilities but also strengthen our ability to secure schools, farmlands, border communities, and critical infrastructure across our states.”
“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 stabilizing 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,” the statement read.
“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,” he said.
Several southern governors attended the meeting, while others were represented by their deputies.
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