The governors of the 17 states of Southern Nigeria on Monday demanded devolution of powers to states from the federal government.
The governors also reiterated their commitment to the growth of Nigeria.
They spoke through a joint communique issued after they met in Lagos House, Ikeja, Lagos.
The governors met twelve years after their last meeting held in Lagos. The first summit took place in 2001 and the last in 2005.
The Southern Governors’ Summit held today at Lagos House, Ikeja. We restated our commitment to a united and indivisible Nigeria. pic.twitter.com/VvP24JqcMn
— Akinwunmi Ambode (@AkinwunmiAmbode) October 23, 2017
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The communique, read by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos, also stated that the governors reiterated their commitment to true federalism and devolution of powers.
They also stated their commitment to a united, indivisible Nigeria and called for effective linkage of infrastructure in the southern part of the country.
The summit also appointed Mr. Ambode as chairman of the forum and governors Dave Umahi of Ebonyi and Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa as co-chairmen.
The forum scheduled the next meeting for Port Harcourt, on a yet to be announced date.
Aside Ambode, governors present include Gov. Ayo Fayose of Ekiti , Gov. Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun ; Ondo State governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu; Osun State governor, Mr Rauf Aregbesola and Oyo State governor, Mr Abiola Ajimobi.
Also present were the Governors of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike; Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki; Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu; Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Akwa Ibom State, Mr Emmanuel Udom and Ebonyi State, David Umahi .
The Deputy Governors of Anambra, Dr Nkem Okeke , and Cross River State, Prof. Ivara Esu were also present at the event.
However, Gov. Rochas Okorocha of Imo State was absent.