The Southern Governors’ Forum witnessed a significant leadership transition on Monday as Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State was elected as the new Chairman, succeeding the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State.
The governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Soludo, emerged as the Vice Chairman of the forum, following a closed-door meeting held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The Southern Governors’ Forum, comprising 17 governors from the South-West, South-South, and South-East geopolitical zones, convened for their first meeting in three years to discuss critical regional and national issues.
Notably absent was Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, while the remaining 16 governors including Godwin Obaseki (Edo), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Alex Otti (Abia), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), and others were in attendance.
Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude and a sense of responsibility in his acceptance speech, highlighting the forum’s commitment to advancing the collective interests of Southern states:
“I first want to thank all the governors for coming to Abeokuta today for this important meeting. It underscores our commitment to ensuring that southern states reclaim their pride of place. I am honored by the confidence reposed in myself and Professor Soludo. We pledge to justify this confidence and work towards the betterment of our region and country.”
He further assured that detailed resolutions from the meeting would be shared with the press, outlining their collective aspirations and strategies moving forward:
“We have discussed a wide range of issues, and while time was limited, Governor Soludo and I will brief you on the details of our communique. It reflects our determination and the reinvigorated mission of the Southern Governors’ Forum.”
Professor Soludo echoed Governor Abiodun’s sentiments, emphasizing the forum’s role in promoting regional integration and development:
“The Southern Governors’ Forum plays a crucial role in ensuring that our region’s interests are well represented and protected. I look forward to working closely with Governor Abiodun and our colleagues to address pressing issues affecting our states.”
The newly elected leadership is expected to steer the forum through a renewed phase of engagement, advocating for policies that foster economic growth, security, and sustainable development across Southern Nigeria. The next meeting of the Southern Governors’ Forum is slated to convene under their leadership in the coming months.