JUST IN: Abiodun Emerges Chairman, Southern Governors Forum; Soludo Vice Chairman

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has been elected Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum, with Professor Charles Soludo of Anambra State assuming the role of Vice Chairman. The announcement came at the conclusion of a pivotal meeting held at the Presidential Lodge, GRA Ibara, Abeokuta.

Governor Babajide Sanwoolu of Lagos State disclosed the appointments following deliberations among sixteen out of the seventeen governors comprising the Southern Governors Forum. The absence of Governor Similayi Fubara of Rivers State was noted, although deputies represented absent governors.

The meeting, a significant gathering after a three-year hiatus, was attended by several governors including Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Alex Otti (Abia), Godwin Obaseki (Edo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Bassey Otu (Cross River), Charles Soludo (Anambra), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), and Uno Eno (Akwa Ibom). Deputy Governors Chinyere Ekomaru (Imo), Monday Onyeme (Delta), and Olayide Adelami (Ondo) were also present.

Speaking to the press after his election, Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the forum, emphasizing the collective commitment to advancing the interests of Southern states. He pledged transparency and promised to uphold the confidence placed in him and Vice Chairman Soludo.

“We have discussed a wide range of issues that concern our region, and we will soon release a detailed communique outlining our resolutions and aspirations,” Governor Abiodun stated.