Tinubu champions closer partnership with northern traditional rulers for security and development

President Bola Tinubu is prioritizing collaboration with traditional institutions to bolster security and development across Nigeria. Information Minister Mohammed Idris, representing the president at the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council meeting in Jigawa State, emphasized the administration's commitment to deepening engagement with these leaders.

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The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu fully recognises the strategic role of traditional institutions and remains committed to deepening engagement with traditional rulers in advancing peace, security, national cohesion, and development.

Idris commended the council, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, for their contributions to peace and unity. He stressed that peace is the bedrock of development, and unity is essential for sustained progress, calling these pursuits a collective responsibility. The minister highlighted the indispensable role of traditional rulers due to their grassroots connection and moral authority in governance and peacebuilding.

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Without peace, development becomes difficult; without unity, progress cannot be sustained. The pursuit of both must remain our collective responsibility.

Addressing security concerns, Idris noted the administration's efforts to strengthen coordination among security agencies, leading to gains against criminal and terrorist groups. However, he acknowledged that lasting peace requires more than just security operations, emphasizing the need to tackle poverty, unemployment, and lack of economic opportunities that fuel insecurity. The government is implementing economic initiatives in agriculture, livestock, solid minerals, infrastructure, and small businesses to create jobs and improve livelihoods.

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Across generations, our traditional rulers have served as custodians of culture and values, mediators in times of conflict, and trusted bridges between government and the people. Your proximity to the grassroots and your moral authority make you indispensable partners in governance, peacebuilding, and community mobilisation.