Traditional Rulers Crucial for Peace and Development in Northern Nigeria, Says Governor Namadi

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has underscored the pivotal role that traditional rulers play in fostering peace, resolving disputes, and driving development throughout Northern Nigeria.

He made these remarks while opening the 8th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council (NTRC), which convened in Dutse, the capital of Jigawa State, on Monday.

The meeting, titled “Peace, Unity and Development of the North,” brought together traditional leaders from the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as government officials and security stakeholders.

Governor Namadi described traditional rulers as trusted partners in governance, noting that their influence remains essential for strengthening community cohesion and maintaining social stability.

He added that no government can effectively tackle the region’s many challenges without the active support and collaboration of traditional institutions.

“We recognize that sustainable progress can only be achieved through participatory governance and close collaboration with traditional institutions, religious leaders, community structures and other stakeholders,” the governor said.

He praised the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council for consistently prioritising peace, security and social stability in its engagements, and highlighted the continued importance of traditional rulers in conflict resolution and community mobilisation.

The governor urged royal fathers to intensify efforts to promote responsible parenting, moral values and youth development, stressing that strong families and communities form the foundation for lasting peace and prosperity.

Namadi also noted that his administration has established community‑based security and peace committees to strengthen dialogue, conflict resolution, early warning systems and cooperation between communities and security agencies.

Earlier, the Sultan of Sokoto and chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, reaffirmed the commitment of traditional rulers to supporting governments at all levels in addressing the challenges facing Northern Nigeria.

The Sultan said traditional institutions remain vital partners in promoting peace, stability and development, adding that governors and traditional rulers must continue working together for the benefit of the people.

“The governors lead their respective states. We, as traditional rulers, are their partners. Our role is to support efforts aimed at bringing peace, stability and development to Northern Nigeria and to Nigeria as a whole,” he stated.