South West governors and leaders of Afenifere, a socio-cultural organisation for the Yoruba people, have harped on the importance of unity despite political differences.

They made the call at the Southwest stakeholders’ dialogue themed: “Strengthening democracy through dialogue; Assessing progress,charting the future”, held in Akure on Wednesday.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako Oyedele, said there was a need for Southwest governors to renew their tradition and lead by example in accountability, inclusion and citizens participation.

He noted that the summit provides an opportunity to institutionalise regular dialogue between citizens and government, adding that true progress can be achieved not by speaking to citizens but by government listening to the yearnings of the people.

Abiodun said, “As we cradle on progressive politics and intellectual innovation, the South-West region must always lead Nigeria’s path towards modern governance, from Chief Obafemi Awolowo visionary legacies to our collective strides in Education, technology and enterprise.

“Let us work together, federal and state government, citizens and institutions to build a southwest that continues to shine as the engine of innovation and prosperity for our nation.

“Democracy thrives when dialogue flourishes, so let this summit resolve to deepen collaboration, confront challenges together and build a future anchor on unity, progress and growth”.

The governor while commending his Ondo State counterpart, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for hosting them and President Bola Tinubu for his bold reform across key sectors, said it has restored national confidence and placed the country on a sustainable growth path.

Also speaking, Lagos State Governor, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who is the Chairman, Southwest governors, said it was time for the region to be a shining light of the country and a beacon to reclaim its heritage of innovation, education, and good governance.

In his remarks, the host, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, explained that the historic gathering was an affirmation of the existing synergy and collaboration between different institutions, hinting that democracy thrives when leaders and citizens meet and dialogue for constructive engagement.

He noted that despite the challenges facing democracy, “our democracy”.

The convener of the programme, and the leader of Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, represented by the former Secretary General of Afenifere, Femi Okurounmu, urged the governors to unite and collaborate for regional development irrespective of their political parties.

He called on politicians, stakeholders and traditional rulers to recommit to the welfare ideology that defines Yoruba political heritage.

Dignitaries at the event included: Minister for Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Olawale Edun, Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, Ondo State Deputy Governor, Mr Olayide Adeyemi, Osun State Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi, Secretary to Ekiti State government, Omolola Adubiaro, former Governor of Ondo, Olusegun Mimiko, former deputy governor of Ogun State, Segun Adesegun, former Speaker of Ogun State, Suraju Adekunbi, Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, HRH Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, Alaafin of Oyo, HIM, Oba Abimbola Owoade, among others.

Southwest governors, Afenifere leaders call for unity, economic development