The South-South Governors’ Forum, a collective of state governors from the oil-rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria, recently convened in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, to deliberate on crucial regional matters and chart a course for future development. The meeting culminated in the election of Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State as the new Chairman of the forum, with Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State assuming the role of Vice Chairman. This leadership transition marks a significant moment for the region, as these governors are tasked with navigating complex political and economic landscapes, fostering collaboration among member states, and driving sustainable development initiatives. The forum’s focus on regional cooperation, security enhancement, and economic advancement underscores its commitment to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing the South-South.
The summit yielded a comprehensive 10-point communiqué that outlines the forum’s key priorities and action plan. A notable highlight was the expression of gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his instrumental role in the emergence of Senator Godswill Akpabio as Senate President. This political maneuver signals the importance of strategic alliances and the potential for greater influence in national affairs. The forum’s appreciation extends beyond political appointments, encompassing infrastructure development and environmental concerns. The governors commended President Tinubu for initiating the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project, a vital infrastructure undertaking that promises to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic activity within the region. However, they also advocated for the project to commence from the Calabar axis, emphasizing the need for equitable distribution of development benefits.
The governors’ agenda also included environmental remediation efforts, recognizing the devastating impact of oil exploration and production on the fragile ecosystem of the Niger Delta. They called upon the Federal Government to expand the ongoing environmental clean-up in Ogoniland to encompass other pollution-affected communities in the region. This call reflects a growing awareness of the long-term consequences of environmental degradation and a commitment to addressing these issues comprehensively. Furthermore, the forum emphasized the importance of improved transportation infrastructure, urging the Federal Government to reactivate the Port Harcourt railway system and extend its reach to connect other states within the South-South. The completion of the East-West Road, a major artery linking the region’s states, was also highlighted as a critical infrastructure priority.
Fiscal policy and revenue sharing mechanisms also featured prominently in the forum’s deliberations. The governors expressed their support for President Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bill, recognizing the need for a more efficient and equitable tax system. However, they also advocated for the expansion of the proposed Value Added Tax (VAT) sharing formula to include oil and gas derivation revenue. This position reflects the region’s long-standing grievances regarding the distribution of resource revenues and their desire for greater control over their economic destiny. The emphasis on resource control underscores the ongoing debate over the balance between federal authority and state autonomy in the management of natural resources.
Security concerns remained paramount in the discussions, with the governors resolving to establish a structured regional security network. This initiative aims to enhance safety and security within the South-South, creating a stable environment conducive to economic growth and prosperity. The forum acknowledged the complex security challenges facing the region, including oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and other forms of criminality, which require a coordinated and robust response. The establishment of a regional security architecture signals a proactive approach to addressing these challenges and fostering collaboration among security agencies.
The Yenagoa meeting showcased the South-South Governors’ Forum’s commitment to collaborative governance and regional development. The comprehensive communiqué encapsulates their vision for a more prosperous and secure future, addressing critical issues ranging from infrastructure development and environmental remediation to fiscal policy and security. The forum’s engagement with the Federal Government on key national issues underscores its ambition to influence policy decisions and ensure that the region’s interests are adequately represented. The election of new leadership signifies a renewed focus on collective action and a determination to overcome the challenges that impede the region’s progress. The outcomes of the meeting lay the groundwork for future initiatives and provide a roadmap for achieving sustainable development goals within the South-South geopolitical zone.
