Retired South-West Nigerian officials pledge support for regional integration

The Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries in South-West Nigeria has pledged to partner with regional bodies to drive integrated development and improve living standards. During their 12th Quarterly Meeting in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, the group committed to collaborating with the South-West Development Commission (SWDC), Odu’a Investment Company Limited, and the DAWN Commission.

Key objectives outlined in an 11-point communiqué include supporting regional growth through policy formulation and implementation. The group specifically highlighted the potential for integrating the six South-West states—Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti—through rail networks.

The association also intends to advance its ‘Seven-Point Agenda,’ focusing on the ‘Odu’a House Initiative,’ which is modeled after London’s Chatham House to foster strategic partnerships and government engagement. Additionally, the group reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality and professionalism in public service, urging active officers to avoid partisan entanglements.