In a historic meeting, the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and the National Council of Traditional Rulers convened on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa to discuss enhancing the role of traditional leaders in governance.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazak of Kwara State initiated the meeting to foster collaboration between the two influential bodies.
The discussion centered on the proposed constitutional amendment bill before the National Assembly, aiming to formalize traditional rulers’ roles in governance, according to Nigerian Tribune.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State briefed journalists on the meeting’s outcomes, highlighting the need to empower traditional rulers within the governance framework.
He emphasized their crucial roles in local governance, community policing, and addressing gender-based violence.
The meeting also addressed pressing issues such as state policing, food security, and emerging threats. Traditional rulers were recognized for their intimate knowledge of their communities and potential to provide vital intelligence for law enforcement.
A joint committee, chaired by the Governor of Imo State, was established to synthesize feedback and insights gathered during the meeting. The committee will create a comprehensive document reflecting the desires and needs of the communities represented.
Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, expressed gratitude for the initiative, stating that the proposed bill aims to amend the 1999 Constitution to reflect the structure, functions, and funding of traditional institutions.
Both Governor Abiodun and Etsu Abubakar stressed the importance of proper funding for traditional institutions, ensuring they can effectively address social, political, and security challenges.
This collaboration marks a significant step towards recognizing the value of traditional rulers in Nigeria’s governance. The proposed constitutional amendment has the potential to formalize their roles, enhancing their contributions to peace, security, and development.
“We discussed the proposed bill currently before the National Assembly regarding the role of traditional rulers. The Etsu of Nupe provided a comprehensive summary of the bill, highlighting its potential to enhance the participation of traditional leaders in governance, peace, and security,” he stated.
Governor Abiodun remarked: “Our traditional rulers possess intimate knowledge of their communities. They can effectively participate in community policing and provide vital intelligence that strengthens our law enforcement efforts.”
Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, on his remarks to the media, expressed gratitude for the initiative, stating: “This meeting represents a significant opportunity to enhance the role of traditional rulers in governance. Our proposed bill aims to amend the 1999 Constitution to reflect the structure, functions, and funding of traditional institutions, ensuring they are insulated from partisan politics.”
Both Governor Abiodun and Etsu Abubakar underscored the importance of proper funding for traditional institutions, asserting that adequate financial support would enable them to effectively address the social, political, and security challenges facing Nigeria today.
As part of the meeting’s outcomes, a joint committee was established, comprising representatives from both the governors and traditional rulers. This committee, chaired by the Governor of Imo State, will synthesize the feedback and insights gathered during the meeting to create a comprehensive document that reflects the desires and needs of the communities they represent.
The Etsu Nupe reiterated the commitment of traditional rulers to serve as significant stakeholders in Nigeria’s governance, stating, “We are equipped with professionals from various fields, including retired military personnel and technocrats. Our experience positions us to lead effectively and address the challenges our nation faces.”
