Abuja, June 9, 2023 – President Bola Tinubu convened a closed-door meeting with traditional rulers and their representatives from across Nigeria today at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja. This gathering marks another crucial step in the President’s ongoing engagements with key stakeholders from various sectors since assuming office on May 29.
The primary focus of the meeting was on national healing and unity, a theme emphasized by President Tinubu in his inaugural speech. As the country faces numerous challenges, the President recognizes the importance of fostering unity and harnessing the diverse expertise available within the traditional institutions.
Leading the delegation of traditional rulers, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’adu Abubakar III, expressed their purpose in visiting the President. Their primary objective was to extend congratulations to President Tinubu and assure him of their unwavering support in his arduous task of nation-building.
The Sultan highlighted the council of traditional rulers’ vast reservoir of professionals from various fields, underscoring the potential for the President to draw upon this expertise. He conveyed the council’s confidence in President Tinubu’s ability to propel Nigeria forward on a path of progress and affirmed their commitment to supporting the realization of his renewed hope agenda through actionable policies.
During the meeting, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Adewusi, echoed the sentiment expressed by the Sultan and urged President Tinubu to make more effective use of traditional rulers in addressing the country’s security challenges. The monarch passionately called upon the President, saying, “Mr. President, use us. Use us. Use us.”
In attendance at the gathering were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume, State House Permanent Secretary Tijjani Umar, and a distinguished lineup of traditional rulers, including the Emir of Kano, Obi of Onitsha, Tor Tiv, Etsu Nupe, Deji of Akure, Shehu of Borno, Elegushi of Ikate, Jaja of Opobo, Lamido of Adamawa, Emir of Zazzau, Gbong Gwom Jos, Attah Igala, Alake of Egbaland, Shehu of Borno, and a representative of the Oba of Benin.
The closed-door nature of the meeting signifies the importance of candid and comprehensive discussions concerning the pressing issues facing Nigeria. President Tinubu seeks to leverage the wisdom and experience of traditional rulers to develop holistic strategies aimed at achieving sustainable progress, unity, and national healing.
As the dialogue between the President and traditional rulers progresses, Nigerians anticipate that their collective efforts will yield tangible outcomes, ensuring a brighter future for the nation. The engagement with key stakeholders from diverse backgrounds reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive governance and his determination to address the challenges impeding Nigeria’s growth and development.
The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism, as traditional rulers pledged their continued support to President Tinubu and his administration’s quest for a more prosperous and united Nigeria. The President expressed his gratitude for their unwavering commitment and assured them of his dedication to working hand in hand with them to address the nation’s pressing concerns.
