The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), lauded the decision of Southwest governors to establish a joint security network and food hubs aimed at addressing insecurity and hunger in the region.
In a statement released on Monday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Gabriel Francis, Chairman of NANS Ogun Joint Campus Committee, described the resolution by the Southwest Governor’s Forum as a commendable initiative that promises to accelerate regional growth and development.
During a meeting in Lagos last week, the governors unveiled plans to establish a coordinated security network and food hubs to bolster the region’s socioeconomic stability.
They also agreed to collaborate on the Southwest Development Commission to drive sustainable growth.
Francis emphasized that the governor’s collaborative approach to critical challenges such as insecurity and food security would play a pivotal role in boosting the economic prosperity of the southwest.
He highlighted that the governors’ focus on security was timely, especially given the suspected influx of insurgents and terrorists into the region.
“We are optimistic that the southwest can reclaim its prime position in the country if the governors continue to work together and address the key issues affecting regional development,” Francis stated.
He pointed out that the southwest is richly endowed with fertile agricultural land, as well as mineral and other natural resources, urging the governors to harness the region’s comparative advantages for the collective benefit of all states in the southwest.
In addition to addressing insecurity and hunger, Francis suggested that the Southwest Governors Forum expand their collaboration to include initiatives in transportation, joint trade fairs, youth development programs, industrial growth, ICT, and other key socioeconomic sectors.
While calling for the swift implementation of these resolutions, Francis urged the governors to establish joint committees to develop a clear roadmap for turning their plans into reality.
