The youth wing of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu says the re-emergence of the Southern Governors Forum, is a major milestone towards securing the interests and aspirations of the Southern States and their people.
The acting National Youth Leader of the Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu expressed optimism in reaction to the coming together of the Forum for the first time, after three years.
On Monday, at Abeokuta, Ogun State, the forum met and appointed a new leadership, with the host governor, Dapo Abiodun as Chairman of the Forum and Anambra Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo as the Vice Chairman.
Speaking on the development, Mazi Okpalaezeukwu commended the decision of the governors to come together, to form a formidable voice for the people of Southern Nigeria, saying that it represents a new dawn for the bloc.
Okpalaezeukwu, who noted that the absence of the forum for the past years, has brought about division and undue friction among the states, who ought to have been working together, however, noted that it is not too late to begin again.
“Ohaneze youths believe that the decision to reconstitute the Southern Governors Forum again is a step in the right direction.
“As it is said, united we stand and divided we fall.
“Nigeria is grouped into North and South, so it is always good for every part to work together for the development of their regions.
“We therefore want to commend the Southern Governors for being proactive to create the forum,” he said.
Describing the new leadership of the forum as round pegs in round holes, Okpalaezeukwu said the forum is now better poised to step forward to pursue the collective well-being of the people of the South.
“The appointment of Governor Soludo as the Vice Chairman of the forum speaks to his exemplary leadership qualities and unique approach to governance that transcends state and national structures.
“We now look forward to a more pragmatic and realistic approach towards championing the interests and aspirations of the southern states.
“The people are now expectant of a collective commitment to ensuring that the southern bloc’s influence finds expression in national affairs,” he said.
The Ohaneze youth leader also expressed appreciation to the Southeastern governors for their respective efforts towards the development of the Southeast.
While pledging their support and solidarity to their leadership, the youths urged them to do more in engaging and working with the relevant youth organizations for greater collaboration and synergy in the geopolitical zone.
