By Our Correspondent
National News – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions in Nigeria, saying monarchs remain vital to peacebuilding, grassroots governance and national development.
He made the declaration on Saturday during the final farewell ceremony held for the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, at the Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Tinubu, represented by Dapo Abiodun, said traditional rulers possess moral authority, local intelligence and social legitimacy that modern political institutions cannot easily replace.
According to him, the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda aims to reposition monarchs as active stakeholders in governance, conflict resolution, security and economic mobilisation across Nigeria.
The President explained that traditional rulers once held significant constitutional relevance under the 1963 Constitution, but their influence gradually declined under later political arrangements.
He noted that ongoing discussions at the National Assembly could help define clearer constitutional responsibilities for royal fathers in order to strengthen governance and national unity.
Tinubu also revealed that his administration has continued consultations with the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria on critical issues including insecurity, economic growth and social stability.
He urged monarchs to transform their palaces into centres of wisdom, peace, reconciliation and early conflict resolution.
Speaking further, the President called on traditional rulers to guide Nigerian youths away from violence, drug abuse, extremism and other social vices threatening communities.
He added that Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage should be treated as a strategic national asset capable of supporting sustainable development and social harmony.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, represented by Architect Abiodun Fari-Arole, described the late Awujale as a respected monarch who championed justice, fairness and reforms in Ogun State’s traditional institution system.
Islamic scholar Sheikh Mustapha Bello also stressed the importance of involving traditional rulers in policymaking because of their close connection to grassroots communities.
