In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the forum said the effectiveness of community-based and regional security outfits demonstrated the urgent need for decentralized policing. It also encouraged all Southern states to formally incorporate traditional rulers into their security councils, noting their crucial role in grassroots intelligence gathering and conflict resolution.
Security chiefs from the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, DSS, and NSCDC provided comprehensive briefings on equipment shortages, manpower gaps, and the need for stronger federal-state collaboration. The forum extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the deaths of military personnel in Borno State and the recent mass abductions in Kebbi, Kwara, and Niger, while commending the successful rescue operations that followed.
The gathering praised President Tinubu’s efforts to stabilize the economy, citing improved foreign exchange conditions, seven consecutive months of falling inflation, and easing food prices. It also highlighted major federal infrastructure projects, including the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road and the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway, as evidence of the administration’s commitment to development.
The Forum endorsed the Renewed Hope Ward Initiative, describing it as a transformative programme expected to directly benefit over five million people across Southern Nigeria. It further underscored the importance of traditional institutions in security, governance, and cultural integration.
Key resolutions from the meeting included the creation of a Zonal Security Fund, enhanced intelligence-sharing systems supported by modern communication technology, and collaboration with NIMC on a unified resident identification programme. The Forum also agreed to strengthen local security outfits, regulate land and mining activities, and provide greater support to traditional councils.
In a united stance, the forum and the traditional rulers passed a vote of confidence in President Tinubu, recalling the Asaba Accord of 2021 and reaffirming their continued support for a southern presidency. They condemned attempts to spread disinformation or sow division within the region.
The communiqué concluded with a pledge by southern leaders to continue speaking with one voice, safeguard the region’s interests, and work closely with the federal government to promote peace, security, and prosperity for all Nigerians.
