The call for the inclusion of traditional rulers in Nigeria’s constitutional framework has resurfaced, as Northern monarchs rally for deeper engagement in addressing the region’s persistent security challenges.
The renewed appeal came during the 7th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, held in Maiduguri, Borno State. The high-level gathering brought together 25 eminent traditional rulers from across the North, and was declared open by Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, represented by Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum.
Themed “Enhanced Security as Panacea for Stability and Development of the North,” the conference underscored the vital role traditional institutions play in intelligence gathering and grassroots peacebuilding.
Vice President Shettima, in his address delivered by Governor Zulum, emphasized that sustainable peace and security are inextricably linked to the involvement of traditional leaders, whom he described as custodians of the nation’s cultural heritage. He advocated for formalizing their contributions through constitutional means to better tackle cross-border crimes and insurgency.
Governor Zulum, delivering a goodwill message, lamented the lack of opportunities for Northern youth, despite their demographic strength and potential. He stressed that empowering young people must become central to any long-term security and development strategy.
The Chairman of the Council and Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, said the gathering is a proactive step toward finding homegrown solutions to insecurity. He urged stakeholders across government and civil society to work in synergy with traditional institutions to chart a new path for peace and progress in the region.
A keynote presentation by former National Orientation Agency Director-General, Dr. Garba Abari, explored systemic approaches to improving national security. Additional goodwill messages were delivered by top officials, including representatives of the National Security Adviser, Chief of Defence Staff, and Inspector-General of Police.
A communique outlining the Council’s resolutions is expected at the close of the meeting.
