.South-West Leaders Endorse Tinubu’s Reforms, Set Agenda for Regional Growth at Landmark Summit
Akure, Ondo State — October 30, 2025
The South-West region took a bold step toward deepening democratic engagement and regional transformation as leaders under the banner of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political organization, concluded a two-day Regional Stakeholders Dialogue and Citizens–Government Interactive Town Hall Summit with top Federal Government officials in attendance.
Held from October 29 to 30, 2025, in Akure, Ondo State, the event themed “Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future” produced a far-reaching communiqué tagged “The Dawn Communiqué,” outlining strategic resolutions for advancing governance, economic growth, and social development across the South-West.
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Backing Federal Economic Reforms
Delegates at the summit voiced firm support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing economic reforms, describing them as “bold and necessary” steps toward Nigeria’s long-term stability and prosperity.
While acknowledging the short-term hardships faced by citizens, participants emphasized the importance of public enlightenment and transparent communication on policy goals and timelines to build public trust and understanding.
“Citizens require clear, transparent, and regular communication to fully understand the rationale and expected impact of government policies,” the communiqué stated.
Call for Integrity and People-Centered Governance
The summit called on political leaders at all levels to be guided by vision, integrity, and a firm commitment to the welfare of the people above partisan interests.
Delegates stressed that good governance must prioritize citizens’ needs and ensure accountability in policy execution and resource allocation.
“Leadership must reflect the people’s aspirations, not party loyalties,” the communiqué declared.
Regional Integration and Infrastructure Renewal
A major outcome of the dialogue was a strong call for accelerated regional integration through large-scale infrastructure and economic projects.
These include intra-regional railway networks, industrial hubs, and agricultural settlements designed to stimulate trade, create jobs, and enhance food security.
The communiqué urged urgent federal intervention to rehabilitate key federal roads in the South-West, including the Ibadan–Ife–Ilesa Highway, Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway, Ita-Ore–Ado-Ekiti Highway, and Ifaki–Lokoja Road — critical routes that link the region’s economic corridors.
Institutionalizing the South-West Summit
To ensure sustained engagement, the delegates resolved to institutionalize the South-West Citizens–Government Engagement Summit as an annual event.
The initiative will provide a continuous platform for policy assessment, stakeholder feedback, and collaborative development efforts.
The Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission will serve as the technical secretariat, coordinating research, follow-ups, and progress reviews.
Acknowledgements and Solidarity
The communiqué expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for facilitating the participation of Federal Government representatives, and to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the government and people of Ondo State for their hospitality and coordination.
Special commendation was extended to Chief Reuben Fasoranti and the Afenifere leadership for their visionary guidance; South-West governors for their solidarity; and traditional rulers, ministers, religious leaders, and the media for their contributions to the summit’s success.
A New Dawn for Democracy
Concluding the communiqué, the Afenifere leadership described the event as a “watershed moment” in Nigeria’s democratic evolution, demonstrating that constructive dialogue between citizens and government is essential for sustainable development and inclusive governance.
“This inaugural summit has proven that structured dialogue between citizens and government is not only possible but vital to effective governance and lasting progress,” the statement concluded.
End of Release
Issued by:
The South-West Summit Secretariat (Afenifere / DAWN Commission)
Date: October 30, 2025
Location: Akure, Ondo State
