Hamzat Advocates for Enhanced Regional Integration in South-West

Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, called for South-West governors to deepen regional integration and harmonize development plans during a centennial birthday lecture for Afenifere leader Chief Reuben Fasoranti. He stated that the region could achieve significant development through collaboration, particularly in infrastructure and agriculture, without requiring constitutional amendments.

Hamzat proposed the development of interconnected rail systems to facilitate movement between states, such as a train linking Lagos and Ekiti. He stressed the necessity of coordinated planning and budgeting among the South-West states, advocating for the involvement of existing regional institutions like the South West Development Commission and DAWN.

Hamzat highlighted agriculture as a key area for collaboration, suggesting that Lagos could utilize its processing capacity while other states with arable land supply agricultural products. He expressed confidence that such integration would fulfill the aspirations of past leaders in the region.