The South West Governors’ Forum, comprising the Governors of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo States, convened on Monday, 24th November 2025, at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan, Oyo State. The meeting focused extensively on security, economic development, agriculture, regional integration, and other matters affecting the wellbeing of the people. At the end of its deliberations, the Forum issued a unified communiqué reflecting both its commitments and concerns.
The Forum began by commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his sustained efforts in addressing national insecurity and implementing key economic reforms that continue to shape Nigeria’s developmental agenda. It also expressed strong solidarity with the Federal Government following the distressing cases of kidnappings in Kebbi, Kwara, and Niger States, including the incidents at the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga town, St. Mary’s Catholic Institution in Papiri, Agwara LGA, Niger State, and the CAC Church in Eruku, Kwara State. The swift rescue operations that secured the release of abducted students and other victims were applauded as evidence of improved national response mechanisms.
Following a detailed review of the security situation in the South West region, the Forum resolved to strengthen regional safety through a number of measures. Central to these is the establishment of the South West Security Fund, which is to be domiciled under the DAWN Commission and managed by the Special Advisers on Security across all six states. These officials will meet monthly to harmonize strategies and ensure coordinated security operations throughout the region. Complementing this is the creation of a real-time digital intelligence-sharing and communication platform among the states, designed to enhance threat notifications, incident reporting, coordination of rapid responses, and monitoring of traveler and cargo movements.
The Forum also emphasized the urgent need to secure forest areas that have increasingly become hideouts for criminal groups. While commending the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Hunters, Amotekun operatives, and other agencies for their dedication, the Governors called on the Federal Government to deploy Forest Guards across the region, with each state providing the necessary personnel. They collectively reaffirmed their commitment to reclaiming the forests and ensuring these spaces no longer serve as safe corridors for banditry, kidnapping, or any form of criminal activity.
Another major concern expressed by the Forum was the growing challenge of unregulated interstate migration, which poses security risks and complicates regional intelligence. The Governors called for tighter border monitoring, improved data collection, and enhanced identification measures. They urged greater collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to ensure proper documentation and prevent interstate migration from becoming a channel for insecurity.
The issue of illegal mining, which has escalated across several South West States, was also highlighted. The Forum condemned the environmental degradation, public health risks, and security challenges associated with illegal mining operations. It called for a more comprehensive licensing framework, stronger monitoring systems, and decisive enforcement actions to curb the activities of those exploiting mining as a cover for criminality.
Reiterating a long-standing regional stand, the Forum reaffirmed its support for the establishment of State Police, stressing that the reform can no longer be delayed and must be implemented without further hesitation. In the economic sector, the Forum acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts in promoting food sufficiency and commended farmers in the region for the increased agricultural output that has contributed significantly to food price stability and overall economic resilience.
The establishment of the South West Development Commission (SWDC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was acknowledged with appreciation, and the Commission was charged to effectively deliver on its mandate for the advancement of the region. In addition, the Forum expressed satisfaction with the work of the DAWN Commission, noting its crucial role in regional integration, planning, and security coordination.
In its concluding remarks, the Forum urged all citizens of the South West to remain united and committed to preserving the peace that has long defined the region. It emphasized that the South West remains one indivisible entity, renowned for religious tolerance and communal harmony. The Governors called on the people to protect these cherished values as collective efforts toward progress and stability continue.
source: Communique Issued from the Meeting of South West Governors, Ibadan, Oyo State.
