Vice President Kashim Shettima has restated the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to respecting and supporting traditional institutions across Nigeria.
Speaking through his Special Adviser on Economic Affairs, Dr. Tope Fasua, at a colloquium marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, the Vice President emphasized the critical role of traditional rulers in national unity and development.
Shettima acknowledged traditional leaders as custodians of culture, moral values, and peace, describing them as indispensable partners in the country’s development agenda.
“The Federal Government acknowledges the vital role played by royal fathers in sustaining peace, promoting unity, and guiding our youth. Their historical contributions to conflict resolution and community development remain as significant today as ever,” Shettima said.
He praised Oba Aladelusi for his visionary leadership over the past decade and called for enhanced synergy between traditional institutions and government bodies to promote sustainable development nationwide.
Also speaking at the event, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde advocated for constitutional recognition for traditional institutions, emphasizing their importance in grassroots governance and community engagement.
Delivering a speech on the theme “The Role of Nigeria’s Traditional Institutions in Nation Building: Impediments, Impacts, and Prospects,” Makinde stated that monarchs are not remnants of a bygone era but enduring symbols of identity and authority with unmatched influence in local communities.
“Before the advent of Nigeria’s modern governance structures, traditional rulers upheld justice, order, and communal values. They remain trusted by the people, and any nation-building efforts that overlook them are inherently incomplete,” Makinde said.
He cited Oyo State’s success in incorporating traditional leaders into its governance model as a blueprint for broader national adoption, noting that empowering these institutions is a strategic governance tool—not just a cultural preservation effort.
In his address, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladelusi, expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde and other dignitaries for their support. He stressed the need for constitutional reforms that would grant more authority to traditional institutions, given their vital role in promoting unity and community advancement.
The monarch also commended the people of Akure and the Ondo State government for their continued support throughout his decade-long reign, noting the unity and progress achieved under his leadership.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, congratulated Oba Aladelusi on the milestone. He lauded the monarch’s reign as transformative, attributing significant development within the Akure Kingdom to his leadership.
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