The South West Governors at a meeting have resolved to strengthen regional security with the establishment of a South West Security Fund (SWSF) and a digital intelligence-sharing platform to coordinate rapid responses to criminal activities across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo States.
The measures are aimed at protecting lives, property, and economic assets across the region.
According to the communiqué issued at the end of the meeting held on Monday, 24 November 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, the SWSF will be administered by the DAWN Commission and overseen by Special Advisers on Security from all six states.
The digital platform will enable real-time sharing of threat notifications, incident logs, traveler and cargo alerts, and rapid response coordination among the six states. The governors also called for enhanced forest surveillance, urging the Federal Government to deploy Forest Guards to reclaim forest belts that have become hideouts for criminal elements.
The Forum also discussed unregulated interstate migration and the rising incidence of illegal mining, stressing the need for stricter border monitoring, data collection, and a comprehensive licensing framework for miners to prevent exploitation by criminal networks.
In addition, the governors reaffirmed support for the creation of State Police, stating, “The time is now,” and praised the Federal Government’s efforts through initiatives such as the South West Development Commission (SWDC) and the DAWN Commission in promoting regional integration and development.
The Forum concluded by urging citizens to remain united, vigilant, and committed to peace and religious tolerance in the South West region.
