Amid rising fears over the incursion of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) into Southern Nigeria, governors from the region have united to bolster security efforts. The Southern Governors’ Forum (SGF), led by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, has outlined a series of collaborative initiatives designed to reinforce the region’s defenses and prevent the spread of terrorism from northern Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Governor Abiodun, who also chairs the SGF, emphasized the importance of a collective, proactive approach to counter emerging security threats. “Our region faces significant challenges with the growing influence of ISWAP in northern Nigeria, and we must work together to safeguard the lives and property of our people,” Abiodun said.
The initiative will see a greater focus on intelligence-sharing, operational synergy, and the strengthening of existing regional security arrangements. Abiodun explained that these measures are designed to provide both local and state authorities with better tools to detect and disrupt terrorist activities before they reach critical mass.
“The Southern Governors’ Forum is committed to creating a unified front against terrorism,” Abiodun stated. “This includes improving inter-state coordination and fostering collaboration between security agencies, government departments, and local communities.”
The governors are prioritizing the integration of community policing strategies, which will involve empowering local stakeholders to play a central role in identifying and addressing security concerns. According to Abiodun, “Community policing is the cornerstone of our security strategy. By working closely with citizens, we can identify potential threats early and stop them in their tracks.”
The launch of this new security collaboration platform comes at a time when reports of ISWAP’s presence in the South have raised alarms across the region. With an increasing number of terrorist groups moving southward, the governors are determined to take swift and decisive action to prevent these militants from gaining a foothold in their states.
“Security is a shared responsibility. We cannot sit idly by and wait for the federal government to handle everything. States must take an active role in securing their territories,” Governor Abiodun said, emphasizing that the recent surge in ISWAP activity has prompted a reassessment of existing security measures in the region.
As part of their commitment, Southern governors have agreed to allocate additional resources to both state and federal security agencies. This includes the provision of operational vehicles, state-of-the-art communication equipment, and enhanced combat gear to boost the morale and effectiveness of security personnel on the ground.
Governor Abiodun also highlighted that, under his leadership, Ogun State has made unprecedented investments in security. “Since the beginning of my administration, we have made substantial investments in both state and federal security agencies. This includes funding for new vehicles, modern technology, and combat equipment,” he explained.
The SGF chairman’s actions reflect his broader commitment to building a secure and peaceful Southern Nigeria. “I am personally involved in overseeing the progress of security agencies, maintaining regular contact with security officials, and holding joint security assessments across the states,” he added.
In addition to enhancing security, the governors’ strategy includes a focus on economic development and human rights. By promoting stability and ensuring public safety, the leaders hope to create an environment conducive to growth and investment across the region.
The governors’ collective approach has already begun to show promise. Meetings and interstate visits have facilitated improved coordination, and several joint operations between states have been launched. Through these efforts, Southern Nigeria aims to establish a robust security framework capable of responding to the growing threat posed by groups like ISWAP.
“The challenges we face require a multi-faceted approach,” said Abiodun. “We are committed to preventing crime, fostering economic growth, and ensuring that our citizens live in peace, free from the threats of terrorism and violence.”
In a statement from the Southern Governors’ Forum, the group reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening local security frameworks to act as early warning systems for terrorist activities. These frameworks will also serve as support mechanisms for federal agencies when necessary. “We are reinforcing our regional security networks to provide real-time intelligence, ensuring that we are always ahead of criminal elements,” the statement read.
As part of the strategy, the Southern Governors have also committed to regular information-sharing with neighboring states and federal agencies. “No state can tackle these threats alone,” Abiodun said. “That is why collaboration is key. We need to share information, resources, and expertise to effectively combat terrorism.”
The Southern Governors’ Forum believes that tackling insecurity requires a comprehensive approach that includes everything from intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation to community engagement and regional coordination. Abiodun stated, “We cannot afford to be complacent. The stakes are too high, and the people of the South are relying on us to take action.”
Despite the severity of the threat, Southern Nigeria’s leadership remains resolute in their mission. As Governor Abiodun put it, “Together, we will face down this challenge. The Southern Governors’ Forum is unwavering in our commitment to the safety and security of the people of the South. Our combined efforts will ensure that the Southern states remain safe havens for all Nigerians.”
This renewed focus on security in the Southern states comes at a critical time. The increasing movement of terrorists from the northern regions of Nigeria to the South has raised alarm bells, with many fearing that these groups could destabilize previously peaceful areas. However, with a clear plan in place and a united front, the Southern Governors are confident that they can prevent ISWAP and similar groups from gaining ground in the region.
The next few months will be crucial in determining whether these coordinated efforts will bear fruit. For now, Southern Nigeria stands as a unified front, committed to defending its people and securing a peaceful future free from the scourge of terrorism.
