Governors of Nigeria’s Southwest region have approved the creation of a dedicated Southwest Security Fund (SWSF) as part of renewed measures to combat rising insecurity across the region.
The decision was announced on Monday after a closed-door meeting of the Southwest Governors’ Forum held in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The meeting was attended by Forum Chairman and Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and the Deputy Governor of Osun State, Kola Adewusi, who represented Governor Ademola Adeleke.
In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the governors praised President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing security reforms and expressed solidarity with the Federal Government over recent kidnapping incidents in Kebbi, Kwara and Niger States. They noted recent successes in rescuing abducted victims, including more than 51 students in Niger State.
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Under the approved plan, the security fund will be managed through the DAWN Commission and overseen by Special Advisers on Security from the six states. The governors also endorsed the establishment of a digital intelligence-sharing system to enable real-time alerts, cross-state surveillance and emergency response coordination.
Concerned about increasing criminal activities in forest reserves, the Forum called on the Federal Government to deploy forest guards across the region, while states will provide manpower and support. They also commended the efforts of the Amotekun Corps, NSCDC, hunters, and other security agencies in ongoing operations.
The governors raised alarm over unregulated interstate migration, describing it as a growing security risk. They called for stricter border control, enhanced data capture, and collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to verify movement across state lines.
The Forum also condemned rising illegal mining activities in the region, warning that it threatens public safety and environmental stability. They demanded tougher licensing, improved monitoring and stronger enforcement.
Reiterating a long-standing demand, the governors declared that the establishment of state police “can no longer be delayed”, insisting that it has become essential for effective security management.
The Forum also commended farmers for increased productivity and acknowledged Federal Government efforts to stabilise food prices. They welcomed the establishment of the South West Development Commission, urging it to deliver meaningful development outcomes.
Ending the meeting, the governors appealed to residents to remain calm, law-abiding and united.
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