Determined to flush out bandits and restore peace in troubled zones across Nigeria, State Governors have resolved to strengthen local security towards preventing possible attacks that could truncate the development in their states.
The governors under the aegis of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) stated that strengthening community-based security initiatives and better intelligence gathering from the grassroots were identified as major antidotes to gunmen attacks across the country.
They added that conflict-prevention mechanisms in grassroots will be established and support for victims of violence, as well as disaster, would be provided to sustain peace and harmony achieved under the President Bola Tinubu-led administration.
According to the governors on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the decision to embark on strengthening local security architecture was taken after a review of the security situation across the country, particularly as it affects each state.
The governors stated this on Saturday after a two-day meeting in Lagos, where security, economy, and social welfare issues were reviewed to address hurdles that may affect growth and development in the country.
The governors, while commending the President for the ongoing re-engineering in the security architecture of the country, reiterated that the safety of lives and property remains a non-negotiable obligation of the government.
Reading the communiqué, Uzodimma said the forum resolved to support the President’s effort by continuing to strengthen community-based security initiatives, intelligence gathering, conflict-prevention mechanisms, and support for victims of violence and disaster.
The communiqué reads: “The Forum reviewed the security situation across the country and expressed appreciation for the improved coordination between federal, state, and local security structures, as well as the courage and sacrifices of security agencies and community volunteers. We then resolved to strengthen local security architecture in all the member states.
“The Forum commended Mr. President for the ongoing re-engineering in the security architecture of the country. Governors reiterated that the safety of lives and property remains a non-negotiable obligation of government. We resolved to continue strengthening community-based security initiatives, intelligence gathering, and conflict-prevention mechanisms, while supporting victims of violence and disaster.”
PGF undertook a review of the political, economic, and social environment in the country, noting that the purpose of reforms must focus on improving lives, protecting citizens’ dignity, and expanding opportunities for Nigerians.
The Forum hailed the President on his commitment to stabilising the economy and laying the foundations of sustainable growth through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Uzodimma said: “Recognising the temporary burdens that accompany necessary macro-economic reforms, the Forum reviewed the state of the economy and the cost-of-living pressures being experienced by citizens. Governors acknowledged the resilience and patience of Nigerians and expressed deep appreciation for the sacrifices being made in the collective interest of a stronger and more inclusive economy.
“We resolved to intensify state-level interventions in areas such as food production and distribution, support to small and medium-scale enterprises, youth employment, social protection for the poorest and most vulnerable, and targeted relief for workers and low-income households.
“The Progressive Governors are committed to working closely with Federal institutions and local governments to ensure that things keep improving, that no group is left behind, and that the gains of reforms continue to translate into visible improvements in the quality of life of the people.”
The Forum noted the critical importance of infrastructure, urban renewal, and rural development in driving productivity, attracting investment, and improving living standards.
The Governors commended Lagos State, particularly, for its pioneering role in transport reforms, urban regeneration, and innovative financing models, and agreed to deepen peer-learning and inter-state collaboration in these areas.
The PGF resolved to scale up investments in roads, housing, public transport, water and sanitation, digital connectivity, and climate-resilient infrastructure, with a focus on inclusion and access for all communities.
It emphasised that infrastructure must be designed and delivered in a manner that is socially just, environmentally responsible, and responsive to the needs of the youth, women, persons with disabilities, and other often-marginalised groups.
Uzodimma said: “The Forum reiterated that effective local governance is central to delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda at the grassroots. Governors resolved to deepen reforms aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and service delivery in local government administration, within the framework of the Constitution and in partnership with relevant stakeholders.
“We agreed to expand platforms for citizen engagement, including town hall meetings, consultation with traditional and religious leaders, civil society, labour, professional bodies, youth, and women’s groups. The Forum affirmed that listening to the people, explaining government policies clearly, and adjusting implementation strategies based on feedback are essential to building trust and sustaining democratic legitimacy.”
The Forum also reiterated its unwavering loyalty to the APC, commending the leadership of the party for its efforts to strengthen internal democracy, discipline, reconciliation, and inclusiveness.
The Governors pledged to continue playing a stabilising role within the party, while ensuring that APC stayed focused on delivering on its mandate.
“The Forum reaffirmed its full support for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the policies of APC governments at all levels. PGF emphasised that Progressive Governors see themselves as trustees of the people’s mandate and as a committee of leaders jointly responsible for translating the aspirations of Nigerians into tangible social and economic outcomes across the federation.”
The Forum underscored the importance of social cohesion, inter-faith harmony and inter-ethnic understanding, urging leaders to use their voices and platforms to promote unity, moderation and respect, while isolating criminality and hate speech in all its forms.
