Gov. Hope Uzodimma, chairman of the joint committee of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and National Council of Traditional Rulers (NCTRN), has pledged the forum’s support for traditional rulers.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, Mr Uzodimma addressed journalists following the forum’s meeting on the proposed bill to establish the national council for traditional rulers.
He affirmed the NGF’s commitment to ensuring the bill’s passage, which is currently before the National Assembly.
“With the bill now at second reading in the Senate, this meeting offers a timely platform to refine our collective stance,” he said.
He stressed the need for the bill’s provisions to reflect real conditions and practical governance realities across communities.
Mr Uzodimma, who is also the Imo governor, said the amendment offers an opportunity to embed traditional institutions in the nation’s governance framework.
He noted that including traditional rulers in state and national security councils is not merely symbolic but both strategic and long overdue.
“Last year, the NGF held a special meeting with the NCTRN to discuss involving traditional rulers in rural governance and administration,” he recalled.
He added that the ongoing constitutional amendment process presents a chance to recognise and assign defined responsibilities to traditional institutions.
He also revealed that a subcommittee comprising NGF and NCTRN members was formed as a result of that meeting.
The subcommittee developed proposals to strengthen traditional rulers’ constitutional roles and to secure NGF’s support for their inclusion in the amendment.
Mr Uzodimma said the latest meeting featured presentations from the subcommittee, which nearly secured full support from forum members.
He stated: “Our final report will go to the wider NGF board for consideration and possible adoption.
“If adopted, we will liaise with the National Assembly to ensure inclusion in the constitutional alteration.”
Mr Uzodimma emphasised that the meeting came at a time of rising security challenges and weakening community bonds in some regions.
He said the government is committed to peace and stability, and this demands more than centralised responses.
“Community-driven solutions must be part of the strategy, drawing on the authority and influence of traditional rulers,” he noted.
He reiterated that the proposed amendment gives Nigeria a chance to integrate traditional institutions into formal governance structures.
Mr Uzodimma stated: “Tackling insecurity should start at the grassroots. Traditional leaders are well-placed to warn early, reconcile disputes and support state actions.”
(NAN)
