By Juliana Agbo, Abuja, Nigeria
Amid rising insecurity marked by kidnappings, extrajudicial killings, and mass displacement, governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have declared full support for the Federal Government’s ongoing overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued on Saturday after a two-day meeting of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The forum also passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pledging support for his Renewed Hope Agenda and backing his reelection bid in 2027.
Calling for calm among Nigerians, the governors assured that federal, state and local governments were implementing coordinated measures to address the security crisis.
The communiqué was read by the PGF Chairman and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, after what he described as a “crucial meeting” attended by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who hosted the forum, as well as 12 other APC governors.
Those present included the governors of Kebbi, Dr. Nasir Idris; Edo, Senator Monday Okpebholo; Ogun, Dapo Abiodun; Ekiti, Biodun Oyebanji; Ondo, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Sokoto, Ahmad Aliyu; Akwa Ibom, Pastor Umo Eno; Delta, Sheriff Oborevwori; Enugu, Peter Mbah; Kaduna, Uba Sani; and Katsina Governor Dikko Umar Radda, represented by his deputy.
Uzodimma said the forum’s engagement provided an opportunity “to review the nation’s current trajectory, deepen coordination among Progressive Governors and reaffirm the Forum’s unwavering support for the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.”
He added:
“The meeting served as an important platform for aligning state-level priorities with national reforms, reinforcing the centrality of citizens’ welfare in governance, and consolidating the Forum’s shared vision of people-focused, accountable and development-driven leadership at all levels of government.”
The governors reviewed the political, economic and social climate, emphasising that the ultimate purpose of every reform must be to improve the daily lives of Nigerians.
According to the communiqué:
“Governors acknowledged the resilience and patience of Nigerians and expressed deep appreciation for the sacrifices being made in the collective interest of a stronger and more inclusive economy.”
The PGF resolved to scale up interventions in food production and distribution, support for SMEs, youth employment, and social protection for vulnerable citizens.
Uzodimma quoted the governors as saying:
“We, the Progressive Governors, are committed to work closely with Federal institutions, the National Economic Council and Local Governments to ensure that things keep improving, that no group is left behind, and that the gains of reforms continue to translate into visible improvements in the quality of life of the people.”
The governors applauded Lagos State for what they described as its pioneering role in transport reforms, urban regeneration and innovative financing models.
They resolved to intensify investments in roads, housing, public transport, water and sanitation, digital connectivity and climate-resilient infrastructure, with a focus on inclusiveness and access across communities.
On insecurity, the forum acknowledged improved coordination among security agencies and vowed to strengthen local security structures.
Uzodimma stated:
“The Forum commended Mr President for the ongoing re-engineering in the security architecture of the country. Governors reiterated that safety of lives and property remains a non-negotiable obligation of the government.”
The PGF also pledged to deepen community-based security initiatives, conflict-prevention mechanisms, and support for victims of violence.
It further emphasised the importance of social cohesion, urging leaders to promote unity, moderation and mutual respect while isolating hate speech and criminality.
The governors reiterated their commitment to transparency and accountability in local governance, vowing to expand platforms for citizen engagement through town halls and consultations with traditional rulers, civil society, labour groups, youth and women associations.
According to the communiqué:
“Listening to the people, explaining government policies clearly, and adjusting implementation strategies based on feedback are essential to building trust and sustaining democratic legitimacy.”
The PGF reaffirmed its loyalty to the APC, applauding the party’s leadership for promoting internal democracy and reconciliation.
Uzodimma concluded:
“The PGF reaffirmed its full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the policies of APC governments at all levels. The Forum emphasized that Progressive Governors see themselves as trustees of the people’s mandate and as a committee of leaders jointly responsible for translating the aspirations of Nigerians into tangible social and economic outcomes across the federation.”
