…Hail Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda
Omobolaji Adekunle
Governors of the South-West states and leaders of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, yesterday called for greater unity, inclusion, and regional economic development to further strengthen democracy in the zone.
The call was made at the South-West Stakeholders Dialogue themed “Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future,” held at the International Culture and Events Centre, Akure, Ondo State.
Present at the event were governors and representatives from Ondo, Lagos, Ogun, Ekiti, and Osun States, as well as traditional rulers and political stakeholders from across the region.
Governors Commend Tinubu’s Reforms
The leaders commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his “Renewed Hope Agenda,” describing his economic and governance reforms as bold steps that have restored confidence and set the nation on a sustainable growth path.
Abiodun Dialogue Deepens Democracy
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said South-West governors must renew their shared tradition of accountability, inclusion, and citizens’ participation in governance.
According to him, “The summit provides an opportunity to institutionalise regular dialogue between citizens and government. True progress is achieved not by speaking to citizens, but by listening to their yearnings.”
He added that the South-West must continue to lead Nigeria’s journey toward modern governance through progressive politics and innovation, building on Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s visionary legacies.
Governor Abiodun highlighted Ogun State’s gains from federal policies, including grain and fertiliser distribution, the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port partnership, and ongoing infrastructure synergy through the Lagos–Ibadan Standard Gauge and Sagamu–Benin Expressway rehabilitation.
He commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for hosting the dialogue and hailed President Tinubu for his reforms across key sectors.
Sanwo-Olu Southwest Must Reclaim Its Heritage Lagos State Governor and Chairman, South-West Governors’ Forum, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urged the region to reclaim its leadership role in innovation, education, and good governance.
“Diversity has always been our strength. Let us harness it towards a shared regional agenda that delivers inclusive growth, citizen engagement, and constructive dialogue,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Aiyedatiwa: Democracy Thrives on Dialogue Host Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, described the gathering as a testament to the collaboration among South-West institutions, saying democracy thrives when leaders and citizens engage constructively.
He noted that despite challenges, “our democracy remains alive and progressing.”
Afenifere, Monarchs Urge Collaboration
The Olowo of Owo, HRM Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, called for more regional stakeholders’ summits to promote unity and development across the South-West.
Leader of Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, represented by Senator Femi Okurounmu, urged governors to unite beyond party lines, adding that every Yoruba child must have access to quality education, healthcare, and employment as rights, not privileges.
He called on leaders to recommit to the welfare principles that define Yoruba political heritage.
Former Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande, commended the organisers, stressing the need for purposeful restructuring, innovation, and diversification of the region’s economy beyond oil.
He urged South-West states to invest in human capital development, agriculture, mining, and solid minerals to drive sustainable growth.
Dignitaries at the event included Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako; Ondo State Deputy Governor, Mr. Olayide Adeyemi; Osun State Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi; Ekiti SSG, Dr. Omolola Adubiaro, former Ondo Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; and royal fathers including the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade.
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