Table of Contents
The Conference of Speakers of South-West States has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, enhancing legislative collaboration, and accelerating socio-economic development throughout the region.
This commitment was detailed in a communiqué co-signed by the National Chairman of the Conference and Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin; the Chairman of the South-West Speakers’ Forum and Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye; Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Olusegun Elemide; and Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Olumide Adewole Egbedun, following their meeting in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Presenting the resolutions, Aribasoye praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts in fostering national unity and development.
He also commended Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for the infrastructure initiatives transforming the state.
The Speakers further recognized the South-West governors for their ongoing efforts in promoting regional integration and driving economic progress.
During the session, the Conference engaged in extensive discussions regarding governance, national reforms, and constitutional issues.
The Speakers reached a consensus to adopt a unified position on several key national matters, including electoral reform, inclusive governance, devolution of powers, state policing, fiscal restructuring, citizenship and indigeneship issues, and the enhancement of local government administration.
They also emphasized the necessity to review and harmonize the Standing Orders of all South-West legislative bodies to ensure consistency and efficiency in lawmaking.
The Conference announced plans to convene a South-West Legislative Summit in Oyo State in the first quarter of 2026, aimed at deepening collaboration, fostering peer learning, and promoting strategic development among state legislatures in the region.
Recognizing security as vital for regional stability, the Speakers applauded the accomplishments of the Amotekun Corps.
They also recommended establishing Post-Legislative Scrutiny Units in all State Assemblies to evaluate the effectiveness of significant laws, including the Anti-Open Grazing Law and the Amotekun Law, ensuring they effectively address emerging challenges.
The Conference encouraged South-West governors to work with the National Boundary Commission to resolve ongoing boundary disputes, underscoring the importance of peace, unity, and youth engagement in governance.
They urged all levels of government to create more opportunities for young people to participate meaningfully in the democratic process.
Regarding agriculture, the Speakers advocated for increased budgetary allocations across the region to enhance food security, improve public health, and support sustainable livelihoods.
