Southwest Governors Unite on Security Demands
Six governors from Nigeria's southwest region have collectively presented three critical demands to President Bola Tinubu's administration, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced security measures across their states. The governors of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti states convened at a crucial meeting held on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the Executive Chamber of the Governor's Office in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
Key Resolutions from Ibadan Meeting
During the high-level security summit hosted by Governor Seyi Makinde, the regional leaders discussed pressing issues affecting the southwest, focusing primarily on economic development, security challenges, and regional integration. The forum, chaired by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, resulted in a comprehensive communique outlining their collective position and demands from the federal government.
Governor Sanwo-Olu read the resolution before attending governors, including Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, and Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo. Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke was represented by Prince Kola Adewusi, demonstrating the unified approach of the southwest leadership.
Three Critical Demands to Federal Government
The governors presented three fundamental demands to the Tinubu-led administration. Foremost among these was the immediate creation of state police, which the governors described as "long overdue" and something that "can no longer be delayed." This demand comes amid intensifying security challenges across the region.
Secondly, the governors called for strengthened forest surveillance and deployment of forest guards to combat the infiltration of criminal groups. They expressed serious concerns about criminal elements occupying forest areas and reaffirmed their commitment to reclaiming the forest belt from these unlawful occupants.
The third major demand addressed the issues of uncontrolled migration and illegal mining activities, which the governors identified as significant contributors to insecurity and environmental threats in the region. They vowed to implement measures ensuring that migration patterns do not facilitate criminal movements.
Regional Security Framework and Commendations
Despite their demands, the governors acknowledged President Tinubu's recent interventions on national security matters, particularly praising rescue operations conducted in Kebbi, Kwara, and Niger states. This recognition demonstrates a balanced approach that both commends existing efforts while pushing for additional measures.
The Southwest Governors' Forum approved the establishment of a South West Security Fund (SWSF) under the DAWN Commission. This fund will be managed by special advisers on security from each of the six states, who will convene monthly to coordinate regional security initiatives.
In a significant technological advancement, the six states adopted a unified digital intelligence-sharing platform for exchanging threat alerts, monitoring security incidents, and coordinating rapid response operations across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti states.
Broader Regional Initiatives
Beyond security concerns, the governors announced plans to create a joint food hub aimed at addressing growing food inflation and related economic challenges. This economic initiative complements their security focus, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to regional development.
The meeting in Ibadan follows earlier discussions among southwest governors about establishing a joint security surveillance team across the geopolitical zone. This continued coordination reflects their determination to tackle insecurity through collaborative regional efforts rather than isolated state actions.
The governors' resolution represents one of the most coordinated regional responses to Nigeria's security challenges, emphasizing both immediate tactical measures and long-term structural reforms to enhance safety and economic stability in the southwest region.
