Seven state governors and five others who were represented by their deputies met at the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt yesterday and adopted far-reaching resolutions.
Among other things; the South-East and South-South Governors Forum resolved to pursue inter-regional cooperation and integration for the common good of the people of the regions.
They also agreed to work together politically, align and re-align as a people that share common heritage, culture and affinity.
Furthermore; the group reached a consensus on the need to articulate and advocate for issues affecting the wellbeing of the regions, which may not necessarily materialize immediately, but for the benefits of future generations.
The chief executives of the thirteen states pledged their commitment to the destiny and greatness of Nigeria and call upon Nigerians to join hands to ensure that the country claims its rightful place in the Comity of Nations.
They equally condemn the spread of hate speech in national discourse, whether by individuals or utterances by political actors or parties.
The meeting resolved to urge the security agencies to set up joint border patrols and develop proactive strategies in combating crime and criminality, and for the Federal Government to come up with a clear policy on concession of Federal roads.
The thirteen state governors frowned at the deplorable condition of federal roads in the two regions, as well as the seeming neglect of the airports and seaports in the regions, as well as the absence of rail network linking the South-East and South-South regions.
They complained that aside from the presence of policemen, there was not much to show in terms of Federal presence in the regions.
The Forum also criticized what it considered to be an emerging trend where approvals for investments in the oil and gas industry are granted for other parts of Nigeria, with laying of pipelines in deep waters rather than citing such projects in the areas that produce the resources.
Therefore; the South-East and South-South Governors urged the Federal Government to encourage investors in the oil and gas industry to operate from within the regions and also make their investments in the sector in the region.
The meeting was presided over by Governor EMMANUEL UDOM of Akwa Ibom State, and the state governors resolved to meet again in Owerri, Imo State on 8th of October.
