Stakeholders from the Southwest region gathered in Ibadan on Thursday to identify and address the region’s challenges.
They concluded that improving the multi-modal transport system is essential for enhancing development, boosting regional integration, and driving the economy.
The stakeholders included top government officials, retired and current Heads of Service, and Permanent Secretaries, among others.
They emphasized the importance of expanding transport multimodality, stating that it would develop networks and have a positive impact on the region.
This call to action was made during the launch of a 262-page proposed plan for the economic development of Southwest Nigeria.
The plan was created by the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries: Southwest Nigeria (ARHOSPS-SWN) in collaboration with the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN Commission).
The event was attended by representatives of the six governors from the Southwest region, including their deputies and Heads of Service.
Organizers described the document as a well-conceived initiative that aims to reposition the Southwest as a leader in Nigeria’s development.
Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, commended ARHOSPS-SWN for taking proactive steps toward the economic development of the region.
Represented by his deputy, Barr. Bayo Lawal, Gov. Makinde characterized the document as a timely intervention to address the rising security threats that have affected many citizens in the region. He called for regional integration and noted that localizing security efforts in each state has helped reduce the menace of armed banditry.
“Regional integration through inter-state road network will improve development in the Southwest.”
Also speaking the Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke said the state governments in the region, are working to collectively address the development of the region, by putting up initiatives that will improve safety.
He said State police is the way to go, as this will further enhance the security architecture in the region.
Adeleke, represented by his Deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, promised the State government will study the proposed plan of action alongside others in the region.
Also pledging their support to the proposed plan of action by ARHOSPS-SWN were the governors of Ogun, Dapo Abiodun; Ekiti, Abiodun Oyebanji; Ondo, Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who were represented by their Heads of Service.
Speaking earlier, the Regional President, ARHOSPS-SWN, Overseer Dr. Ebenezer Okebukola described the books as blueprint for progress in the region.
“This book, the culmination of rigorous research, insightful deliberations, and the collective wisdom of our esteemed members, represents our unwavering dedication to the land that has nurtured us and to the generations that will follow”, he said.
“Within its pages, you will find meticulously researched proposals, addressing critical areas.”
According to him, the Proposed Plan of Action for the Economic Development of the South-west region, Nigeria is designed to proffer solutions to various topics, including: Security improvement strategies, Health development, Power and solid minerals, Arts, culture, and tourism, Regional development plans, Project financing, Transportation development, Educational development, Agricultural and industrial development, Public service development and Governance and nation-building.
A key component of the Action Plan is a detailed framework for security improvement. The plan recommends a State-by-state and town-by-town security network identification and a 15-point recommendation series, including the establishment of State Police.
The Director-General, DAWN Commission, Dr. Seye Oyeleye applauded ARAHOSPS-SWN for their exceptional effort in producing this comprehensive “Plan of Action for the Economic Development of the Southwest Region, Nigeria.”
He said the document comes at a crucial moment for the region, coinciding with the establishment of the Southwest Regional Development Commission.
“It provides a rich repository of insights, strategies, and actionable recommendations that will guide our regional development efforts”, he said.
The event also had in attendance the Oyo state Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, delegates from each of the States in the South-West region, as well as other stakeholders.
READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
Trouble began when Mustapha Salihu, the APC’s National Vice Chairman (North-East), openly declared support for…
A prominent legal practitioner and justice advocate, Barrister Aida Nath Ogwuche, has written an open…
Darma also emphasized the importance of collaboration and strategic resource management across ECOWAS institutions.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on Monday declare open a high-level legislative dialogue on security,…
While the bulk of rallies occurred in the US, sympathetic demonstrations also took place abroad.
Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has ordered an investigation into the role…
This website uses cookies.