The strategic leverage of the DAWN Commission remains the six state governments of southwest Nigeria (Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states) who have over the last ten years consistently and sustainably funded and resourced the programs and projects of the Commission. The Commission continues to enjoy the strategic convening powers as granted by the six southwest states as a deliberate course of action to energize and drive the agenda for deepening interstate collaboration, regional development and prosperity of southwest states as a single bloc within the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The DAWN Strategy Roadmap was conceived as a fulfillment of the promises of federalism. It is a practical approach to create development within the context of the Nigerian federalism. The Strategy is concerned with creating a regional laboratory of policy advisory, allowing regional variations in policy to flourish, as well as addressing the distinctive concerns of the people of Western Nigeria. The Roadmap seeks to optimally leverage the advantage of the territorially concentrated ethnic identity of the States of the Southwest Region for good governance, synergy, efficiency and the economies of scale essential for pervasive regional development.
The commission remains the dedicated institutional platform for pursuing the collective interests of the Southwest Region; optimization managers for pulling the States together to act together for optimal results; development information managers for developing Regional data, research and analytics capability; a convergence platform for development strategy and ideas; creating conversation and cobbling coalitions for regional actions; platform for regional consensus and internal solidarity for collaborative regional actions and acting as a strategic interface point between the Region and our senior-level officials at the Federal level
With its focus solely dedicated to the development of the western region of Nigeria and by concentrating on socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural growth, the DAWN Commission has been able to streamline efforts and resources towards tangible progress. The Commission looks beyond short-term gains and aims to create lasting impact. By prioritizing investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and other critical sectors, it lays the foundation for future prosperity. By pooling resources and expertise from multiple sources, DAWN Commission maximizes the impact of available funds and capabilities. This enables the region to achieve more significant results with fewer resources, thereby promoting efficiency and accountability. DAWN Commission plays a pivotal role in fostering unity and cooperation among the states in the western region of Nigeria. By promoting regional integration, it unlocks synergies and opportunities for collective growth and development.
The DAWN Roadmap has over the years birthed implementable roadmap and blueprints for the Southwest Health sector, Digital Literacy and also made a critical intervention in the values and ethics domain by publishing the ‘Omoluabi book’(a series highlighting the principles and value system necessary for communal and nation building targeted at the young demography both within and in diaspora).
The Commission started the conversation on regional railway system and electricity even before the game changing reforms by the Federal Government in transport and power infrastructure. Shortly after the legislative reforms the Commission mobilized experts and key stakeholders from the public/ private sectors, and the academia at the Southwest Investment Promotions Agencies Conference, 2023, in Akure, Ondo State themed “Infrastructure for Increased Productivity in the Southwest”. Subsequent engagements have sought to showcase a business case for a favorable investment climate for the power and rail sectors in the Southwest region, attract investors, and; foster collaborations between the public sector, private sector, and investors.
Still on the infrastructure spectrum, the Commission has facilitated, in principle, funding of the coastal road stretching from Ore in Ondo State to Akodo in Lekki, Lagos State and passing through the Araromi Beach. The road is estimated to require about $450m and arrangements are ongoing to finalise the funding requirement.
It is also worthy to mention that the Commission in partnership with the DFID PERL Programme has successfully supported the states in the region to establish Reform Coordinating Agencies to drive efficiency and excellence in public service delivery.
The Commission leverages its very rich network of public-spirited human resource from bureaucrats, academics, private sector players and other experts in delivering on is mandate which is primarily to envision greatness and prosperity for the Southwest region in particular and Nigeria in general and put in place the critical structures in delivering on the vision. It is this rich network of support that enabled the birthing of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun. Amotekun is now in its fourth year. It is still in the teething age as could be expected of such a initiative but it has in its short year and despite many constraints, helped plugged the gap in our security architecture and it is growing stronger to do more.
The Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission serves as a shining example of the merits of a non-political regional development organization; and being non-political ensures that DAWN Commission remains free from the influence of partisan agendas. This allows for more impartial decision-making and implementation of policies and projects, leading to greater efficiency and effectiveness. DAWN Commission fosters collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector entities, NGOs, and community groups. By bringing diverse perspectives and expertise together, it can devise comprehensive solutions to regional challenges.
The Afenifere group, like other socio-political organizations, operates autonomously and represents specific interests within the region. Interference by DAWN Commission could undermine the independence and legitimacy of such organizations.
Southwest Nigeria is home to a diverse range of socio-political groups with varying perspectives and priorities. DAWN Commission should respect this diversity and refrain from favoring or interfering with any particular group, allowing for a plurality of voices to be heard.
DAWN Commission’s mandate is primarily focused on regional development rather than political advocacy. By avoiding interference in socio-political affairs, it can maintain its focus on implementing development initiatives that benefit the entire region.
Involvement in socio-political matters can be contentious and may risk alienating certain segments of the population. By staying neutral, DAWN Commission can avoid unnecessary controversy and maintain its reputation as a neutral facilitator of regional development.
The State governments of Southwest Nigeria under the auspices of the western Nigeria Governors Forum, the champions and visioners of the DAWN Roadmap, the DAWN Commission’s leadership from the pioneer Director General, Late Mr. Dipo Famkinwa of blessed memory and current leadership led by Dr Seye Oyeleye have been consistent in the commitment and consensus of sustaining the non-political and non-partisan DNA of the commission as its unique selling point for several reasons.
To begin with, its focus on Development Goals primarily focuses on achieving development objectives for the region. Political involvement could distract from this mission and potentially lead to conflicting priorities or partisan agendas. this is against its foundational principles of regional solidarity
In addition, remaining non-partisan ensures that DAWN Commission can operate with impartiality and fairness, treating all stakeholders equally regardless of political affiliations. This helps build trust among diverse groups within the region and fosters cooperation for development initiatives.
Furthermore, non-political status provides DAWN Commission with stability and continuity across political transitions. This enables it to maintain consistency in its programs and initiatives, ensuring that development efforts are not disrupted by changes in government or political leadership.
Non-partisanship also enhances DAWN Commission’s credibility and fosters public trust in its actions and decisions. It demonstrates a commitment to serving the interests of the region as a whole, rather than advancing the agendas of specific political groups.
Regarding interference with socio-political organizations like the Afenifere group in Southwest Nigeria, DAWN Commission would refrain from involvement in the dynamics of politics within that domain as can lead to polarization within the region, as different political factions may view DAWN Commission’s actions through a partisan lens. By staying neutral, DAWN Commission can bridge political divides and promote unity around common development goals.
Overall, by remaining non-political and staying within acceptable boundaries in relating with socio-political organizations, DAWN Commission can better fulfill its mandate of promoting sustainable development and unity in Southwest Nigeria. DAWN Commission exemplifies the merits of a non-political regional development organization and a template for development by fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth for the benefit of the Southwestern region of Nigeria.