By Ayo Ayodele
Southwest governors and leaders have expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, praising his bold reforms and developmental agenda. They said his administration has delivered on campaign promises, fostering progress in the region and across Nigeria.
At a two-day conference in Akure, Ondo State, prominent leaders discussed strategies to strengthen regional integration and economic collaboration. Chief Bisi Akande, former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), described the creation of regional development commissions as “quiet restructuring” that empowers states and promotes federalism.
Afenifere leader Chief Reuben Fasoranti, represented by Senator Femi Okurounmu, urged Yoruba unity and a return to progressive governance aimed at social welfare. Olufemi Awoyemi, chairman of Proshare Limited, encouraged the Southwest states to maximize the opportunities presented by the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) and the newly established Southwest Development Commission (SWDC) to achieve long-term economic growth.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended President Tinubu’s leadership. Aiyedatiwa said, “We are for Tinubu beyond 2027. It is in the interest of our region and Nigeria.” Sanwo-Olu added, “Under President Tinubu, Nigeria is being reshaped into a land of renewed confidence, investment, and prosperity. The reforms may have caused temporary challenges, but they are yielding lasting benefits.”
Other speakers highlighted sector-specific achievements:
Finance: Minister Wale Edun noted the efficiency of fiscal reforms.
Power: Minister Adebayo Adelabu emphasized decentralization and private-sector participation, attracting $4 billion in investment.
Blue Economy: Minister Adegboyega Oyetola highlighted modernization of ports and revenue growth of N1.39 trillion.
Health: Minister of State Iziaq Salako stressed preventive healthcare measures and the creation of three cancer centers, saving the country $1 billion in medical tourism.
Sanwo-Olu, Chairman of the Southwest Governors’ Forum, urged deeper collaboration across states, sectors, and communities. He called on stakeholders to leverage the SWDC as a platform for regional transformation, citing education, infrastructure, and industrial development as key areas for progress.
The conference brought together governors, deputy governors, former leaders, traditional rulers, political and civil society figures, reflecting a united front behind the President’s vision for national renewal.