Government, traditional institutions must work together on security — Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stressed the need for stronger collaboration between government and traditional institutions to address security challenges and promote development across the country.
The president’s message was delivered by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, at the 8th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council (NTRC) held on Monday in Dutse, Jigawa State.
Idris said the Tinubu administration recognises the strategic role of traditional rulers and remains committed to deepening engagement with them in advancing peace, security, unity and development. He also commended the council, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for its contributions to peace, stability and development across Northern Nigeria.
Speaking on the theme, “Peace, Unity and Development of the North,” the minister described peace as the foundation of prosperity, stressing that traditional rulers remain critical partners in governance and peacebuilding because of their close relationship with local communities and their influence at the grassroots.
“Across generations, our traditional rulers have served as custodians of culture and values, mediators in times of conflict, and trusted bridges between government and the people. Your proximity to the grassroots and your moral authority make you indispensable partners in governance, peacebuilding, and community mobilisation,” he said.
On security, Idris said the administration had strengthened coordination among the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and other security institutions, resulting in significant gains against criminal and terrorist groups. He added that lasting peace would also require addressing poverty, unemployment, social exclusion and limited economic opportunities that often fuel insecurity.
The minister highlighted key government initiatives aimed at boosting economic growth, including interventions in agriculture, livestock development, solid minerals, infrastructure, education financing, consumer credit and support for small businesses. He noted that the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock Development would help modernise the sector, improve productivity and reduce resource-based conflicts.
Idris also highlighted major infrastructure projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, Calabar-Abuja Super Highway and Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe Road Corridor. He urged traditional rulers to continue supporting government programmes through community mobilisation and public enlightenment, expressing confidence that the meeting would generate practical recommendations for strengthening peace, unity and development across Northern Nigeria. He also extended condolences to Katsina State over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, describing him as a patriot who served the nation with honour and dedication.
