The traditional rulers in Kaduna State, northwestern Nigeria, led by the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamali have renewed calls for stronger constitutional recognition, while urging the government to formally define and strengthen the role of traditional institutions in governance and peace building.
Speaking at the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Week (NIPRW) “Croc City 2026” forum held at the State House, Hassan Usman Katsina House, Kawo, Kaduna, the emir said traditional rulers remain central to peace, unity and grassroots development but are yet to receive adequate institutional backing.
Bamali explained that the traditional institution in Northern Nigeria predates colonial rule and has continued to serve as a stabilising force in communities, particularly in conflict mediation and inter-communal dialogue.
The Guardian, a Nigerian daily newspaper reports that the monarch stressed that traditional rulers must remain active partners in promoting peace and discouraging violence and hate speech.
On food security, the emir pointed out, sustainable peace remains a prerequisite for agricultural productivity, noting that farmers can only contribute effectively when they are able to farm safely.
In his remarks, Governor Uba Sani, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Sadeeq Maman Lagos, assured traditional rulers of continued inclusion in governance under his administration.
He said, “the government recognises the strategic importance of traditional institutions in security management and grassroots development”.
The commissioner stressed that no government can succeed without the active involvement of traditional rulers, describing them as key stakeholders with deep knowledge of local communities.
Earlier, President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Ike Neliaku, emphasised the importance of strategic communication in governance, noting that policies only succeed when they are effectively understood and embraced by citizens.
