Ambode Heads Southern Governors’ Forum

After about 12 years of inactivity, the Southern Governors’ Forum (SGF) reconvened in Lagos on Monday with a resolution to become a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian politics. At the end of its one day meeting, the Forum appointed the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr Akinwumi Ambode as its chairman.

Also appointed were Governors Dave Umahi of Ebonyi and Seriake Dickson of Balyesa State who will serve as co-chairmen.

The SGF was formed by former governor of Lagos State, Bola Tinubu and had its first meeting in Lagos in 2001 and the last meeting in 2005.

During the meeting at the State House in Ikeja, Lagos,, the Forum unanimously give its support to Nigerian unity, but want devolution of power and true federalism. The Governors also pushed for the development of southern Nigeria.

“We restated our commitment to a united and indivisible Nigeria, ” the Forum said at the end of the meeting.

The communique of the meeting read that “We reiterate our belief in true federalism and devolution of powers. We are committed to collaborating with one another for the growth and development of our economies.

“We also emphasize the need for effective linkage on good infrastructure within Southern Nigeria and we are also committed to a united and indivisible nation.”