In a landmark gathering that underscored the Yoruba region's commitment to reshaping Nigeria's governance structure, governors, federal ministers, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders from the South-West geopolitical zone assembled in Akure, the capital of Ondo State, on Wednesday. The high-profile summit, hosted at the prestigious International Culture and Events Centre, popularly known as The Dome, aimed to propel discussions on power devolution, the pursuit of true federalism, and strategies for collective regional advancement. This convergence of influential figures marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about Nigeria's democratic evolution, emphasizing the need for structural reforms to empower subnational entities.
The event was organized under the compelling theme, “Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future.” According to a detailed statement issued by Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State, the meeting represented a deliberate effort to move beyond rhetoric and into actionable outcomes. The statement eloquently captured the essence of the occasion: “Today, we stand at a threshold of history. Shall we continue with centralisation when true federalism demands devolution of powers? Strength without renewal fades. Dialogue must go beyond talk; it must birth action.” It further highlighted how such collaborations are indicative of a maturing democracy, where the bond between citizens and government is being fortified, fostering a genuine sense of ownership in governance among the populace.
Ondo State's selection as the host was no coincidence, as the statement described it as the “land of honour, hard work and hospitality,” making it an ideal venue for incubating innovative ideas to renew Nigeria's democracy. The communiqué reaffirmed a collective belief in deepening democracy through institutional reforms, achieving fiscal balance, and promoting participatory engagement between federal and state governments. This hosting role positioned Ondo State at the forefront of regional initiatives, symbolizing a resurgence of cooperative spirit rooted in the progressive legacies of Yoruba political icons.
Leading the proceedings, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State delivered a keynote address that praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his courageous economic reforms. Aiyedatiwa noted that these policies have significantly enhanced federal allocations to states, enforced greater fiscal discipline, and rekindled trust between the government and the citizenry. He pointed to tangible federal investments in the South-West as evidence of this progress, including the ambitious Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, which includes a 71-kilometer segment traversing Ondo State. Other highlighted projects encompassed the Ilaje Deep Sea Port, the Akure–Ado-Ekiti Dual Carriageway, ongoing upgrades to the Ore–Ondo–Akure highways, and the Federal Housing Authority’s initiative to construct 1,000 housing units within Ondo State. These developments, Aiyedatiwa argued, are not merely infrastructural but emblematic of a broader vision for equitable growth.
Aiyedatiwa invoked the enduring legacies of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Adekunle Ajasin, visionary leaders whose emphasis on participatory governance and regional collaboration continues to inspire the Yoruba political ethos. He positioned Ondo State as a vanguard in this renewed cooperative framework, urging a departure from centralized control toward a system where states can harness their unique potentials.
Echoing these sentiments, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State advocated for a cohesive regional development blueprint. He implored South-West leaders to “reclaim its heritage of innovation, education, and good governance,” asserting that unity is essential for sustained progress. Sanwo-Olu commended President Tinubu’s interventions, particularly those that have stabilized the naira and bolstered investor confidence, creating a more conducive environment for economic activities across the zone.
From Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun was represented by his deputy, Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who emphasized that democracy flourishes through ongoing dialogue and intergovernmental collaboration. She called for sustained interactions between authorities and the people to ensure policies reflect grassroots realities and foster inclusive growth.
A significant voice from the socio-cultural sphere came from Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the leader of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba organization. Represented by Senator Femi Okunrounmu, Fasoranti appealed for transcending partisan divides among South-West governors. He illustrated his point with practical examples: “When Osun innovates successfully, let Oyo adopt and adapt. When Lagos leads, let others follow.” This call for cross-state emulation underscored the potential for shared successes to accelerate regional development.
Traditional institutions lent their weight to the discourse, with monarchs such as the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, endorsing perpetual regional dialogues. Their participation highlighted the integral role of cultural leaders in bridging modern governance with historical values. Adding a veteran perspective, Chief Bisi Akande, a former governor and stalwart of the All Progressives Congress, lauded Tinubu’s reforms as foundational efforts to reconstruct Nigeria’s economy. Akande passionately advocated for authentic federalism and the empowerment of regions via mechanisms like the proposed Southwest Development Commission. He argued that decentralization would liberate states from excessive reliance on the federal government, unlocking latent economic capacities and promoting self-sufficiency.
The summit’s intellectual depth was enriched by thematic sessions moderated by key federal ministers. Mr. Wale Edun, Minister of Finance, likely delved into fiscal federalism and resource allocation. Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, handling Marine and Blue Economy, probably addressed coastal and maritime opportunities pivotal to the South-West’s economy. Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, would have tackled energy challenges and infrastructure, while Dr. Adekunle Salako, overseeing Health and Social Welfare, focused on human development indices.
Attendance was bolstered by other notables, including Dr. Olayide Adelami, Ondo’s Deputy Governor; Senator Ademola Adeleke, Governor of Osun State, represented by Mr. Kola Adewusi; Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, deputized by Mr. Bayo Lawal; Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, represented by Dr. Habibat Adubiaro; and former Ondo Governor Olusegun Mimiko. Their presence, either in person or through proxies, reflected a broad consensus on the urgency of the issues at hand.
This Akure convergence was more than a ceremonial assembly; it was a strategic forum to evaluate democratic gains since Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999 and to blueprint future reforms. Participants grappled with the imbalances of the current federal structure, where over-centralization has often stifled state initiatives. The push for power devolution seeks to grant states greater autonomy in areas like security, education, and resource management, aligning with global federalist principles.
Economically, the discussions tied into broader national recovery efforts under President Tinubu, whose administration has navigated subsidy removals, currency floats, and inflation controls. The South-West, historically an economic powerhouse with Lagos as Africa’s commercial hub, stands to benefit immensely from tailored regional policies. Infrastructure projects mentioned are expected to enhance connectivity, boost trade, and create jobs, addressing unemployment and urban-rural disparities.
Culturally and politically, the event revived Awolowo’s vision of a federated Nigeria where regions compete healthily while collaborating. Afenifere’s involvement signaled civil society’s stake in these reforms, ensuring they are not elite-driven but people-centered.
In conclusion, the Akure meeting has set the stage for tangible follow-ups, potentially influencing national constitutional reviews or legislative agendas. By fostering unity across party lines—evident in representations from APC-dominated states and PDP-led Osun—the South-West demonstrates maturity in prioritizing regional interests over political rivalries. As Nigeria confronts fiscal federalism debates, this dialogue could catalyze a paradigm shift, empowering states to drive their destinies while contributing to a stronger union. The outcomes from The Dome may well echo in future policy corridors, proving that sustained conversation can indeed forge a more equitable and prosperous federation.
