President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions, describing monarchs as indispensable partners in promoting peace, security and grassroots development across the country.
Tinubu stated this on Saturday during the final farewell and reception held in honour of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Represented by the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the President said the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration had deliberately repositioned traditional rulers from ceremonial figures to active stakeholders in governance, conflict resolution and nation-building.
According to him, traditional rulers possess indigenous intelligence, moral authority and social legitimacy that modern institutions cannot easily replace.
He said, “Our vision is clear, a Nigeria where traditional institutions are recognised as critical stakeholders in promoting peace, preserving values, strengthening harmony and advancing grassroots development.”
Tinubu noted that while the 1963 Constitution accorded traditional institutions significant relevance within the governance structure, subsequent constitutional arrangements diminished their influence.
The President, however, assured that his administration would continue to support efforts aimed at assigning clearer constitutional responsibilities to traditional rulers through ongoing engagements at the National Assembly.
“This is not about politics; it is about strengthening governance, deepening inclusion and recognising an institution that has sustained social order for centuries,” he added.
Tinubu also disclosed that the Federal Government had sustained consultations with traditional and religious leaders through the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria on issues relating to security, economic growth and communal peace.
He charged monarchs across the country to remain at the forefront of peacebuilding and social stability amid prevailing security challenges.
The President urged royal fathers to make their palaces centres of wisdom, reconciliation and conflict resolution, while also strengthening community-based security structures through intelligence gathering and early warning systems.
He further called on traditional rulers to guide youths against violence, extremism, drug abuse and other social vices.
Tinubu commended the Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance for organising the lecture in honour of the late monarch, whom he described as a courageous and principled leader who ruled with wisdom and integrity.
Speaking on the lecture theme, “Bridging the Gap Between Traditional Institutions and Modern Government,” Tinubu described the topic as significant to Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
In a keynote address, former President Olusegun Obasanjo described the late Awujale as a foremost traditional ruler whose influence transcended Ijebuland.
Represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing and Managing Director of the Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation, Abiodun Fari-Arole, Obasanjo said the late monarch was a lover of peace, justice and fairness.
Also speaking during another lecture session titled “A Dialogue for a Stronger Future,” Sheikh Mustapha Bello stressed the importance of culture and traditional institutions in driving socio-economic development.
He maintained that traditional rulers should be actively consulted in policy formulation and implementation because they represent the true voice of the grassroots.
