South-West Stakeholders Launch Action Plan, Call for Multimodal Transport System to Boost Regional Growth

South-West Stakeholders Launch Action Plan, Call for Multimodal Transport System to Boost Regional Growth

Governors Emphasize Regional Integration and Security Collaboration

Stakeholders from across the South-West region of Nigeria converged in Ibadan on Thursday to launch a comprehensive Proposed Plan of Action for the economic development of the region, with a strong call for the enhancement of a multimodal transport system to drive growth and regional integration.

The high-level gathering, organized by the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries, South-West Nigeria (ARHOSPS-SWN) in partnership with the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission, witnessed the presentation of a 262-page strategic document addressing key development areas including security, infrastructure, education, governance, and regional cohesion.

The event drew representation from the six South-West governors—Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo States—through their Deputies and Heads of Service, alongside serving and retired top government functionaries.

Speaking at the event, Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Bayo Lawal, applauded the initiative, describing it as a timely response to the pressing developmental and security challenges in the region. He emphasized that enhancing intrastate road networks and local security initiatives have already shown positive outcomes.

"Regional integration through improved transport and security systems is crucial for the sustained development of the South-West," he said.

Similarly, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, represented by Deputy Prince Kola Adewusi, threw his weight behind the initiative, advocating for the establishment of State Police to enhance the region’s security architecture. He assured that Osun would review the document and align with its proposals where appropriate.

Governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Abiodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), and Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), also expressed their support for the proposed action plan through their representatives, highlighting its alignment with the collective aspirations of the region.

In his address, ARHOSPS-SWN Regional President, Overseer Dr. Ebenezer Okebukola, described the document as a blueprint borne out of rigorous research, consultations, and the shared wisdom of former top civil servants committed to the progress of the South-West.

"This plan offers solutions across critical sectors—security, health, education, power, agriculture, arts and culture, and governance," Okebukola stated, adding that the plan outlines a 15-point security framework including the establishment of State Police and localized security networks.

Director-General of the DAWN Commission, Dr. Seye Oyeleye, hailed the document as a timely and comprehensive resource, coming at a period when the Southwest Regional Development Commission is being established.

"It offers actionable strategies to guide our regional development agenda," he noted.

The launch event also featured remarks by Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, and delegates from across the region, all pledging commitment to a united and prosperous South-West.

The Proposed Plan of Action stands as a renewed commitment by stakeholders to reposition the South-West as a model of economic strength, safety, and sustainable governance in Nigeria.