South-South Governors Prioritize Security and Development

The governors of the six South-South states, under the leadership of Douye Diri, who is also the Governor of Bayelsa State, have committed to enhancing security in the region. They assert that sustainable economic development is contingent upon improved security and environmental restoration.

Diri stated that investment will remain elusive if communities, waterways, and critical infrastructure are vulnerable to attacks and neglect. He pointed out the paradox of a region that significantly contributes to Nigeria’s economy yet suffers from severe ecological and developmental challenges.

The governors stressed the need for stronger intelligence-sharing and coordinated security operations to protect communities and economic assets. They linked economic development with security and environmental sustainability, emphasizing that issues like oil spillage, gas flaring, and erosion must be prioritized nationally.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the governors resolved to endorse President Bola Tinubu’s re-election and will engage with him on the region's development priorities, including security and infrastructure.