The South-South Governors’ Forum has resolved to establish a regional security network aimed at bolstering safety across the six states of the region—Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers. This bold move comes amid growing security concerns and is part of a broader strategy to protect lives and economic assets in the oil-rich region.
The decision was reached during the forum’s high-profile meeting on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Government House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. In a communique issued after the session, the governors also pressed the Federal Government to accelerate the long-overdue completion of the East-West Road, a critical artery that connects the region and facilitates trade.
Key Resolutions from the Meeting
1. Strengthening Security with a Regional Network
The governors reaffirmed their commitment to tackling insecurity by establishing a well-coordinated regional security outfit. This initiative will complement federal security agencies in combating crime, pipeline vandalism, and other security threats unique to the Niger Delta.
2. Infrastructure Development
The forum called for the reactivation of the Port Harcourt railway line, urging the Federal Government to ensure its extension across the region to enhance movement and economic activities.
3. Economic Diversification Beyond Oil
Recognizing the vulnerability of an oil-dependent economy, the governors encouraged member states to explore alternative economic opportunities, including agriculture, tourism, and technology-driven industries.
4. Tax Reform and Revenue Allocation
While expressing support for President Bola Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bill, the forum advocated for a fairer Value Added Tax (VAT) allocation formula that extends the derivation principle to other revenue-generating sectors, particularly oil and gas.
5. Revitalization of the BRACED Commission
The governors agreed to revamp the BRACED Commission, an initiative designed to foster regional integration and economic cooperation among the six states.
New Leadership for the Forum
In a unanimous decision, the governors elected Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, as Chairman of the South-South Governors’ Forum. Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, emerged as the Vice Chairman.
The nomination was moved by Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and seconded by Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, symbolizing a unified front in addressing the region’s socio-economic and security challenges.
With these resolutions, the South-South Governors have signaled a new era of collaborative governance, economic transformation, and regional security, setting the stage for a more prosperous and self-reliant Niger Delta.
PIONEER NEWS 