President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday in Abuja emphasized the imperative of support of traditional rulers in the administration’s determination to address the demands of the country’s youths.
At a meeting in the State House with a delegation of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria led by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji (Dr) Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, the President told the royal fathers that “we have heard the loud cries of our youths and children, and we are attending to their concerns.”
The President in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, however, stressed that: “To succeed in all of this, we would require your support and voice to help amplify the message. Your proximity to the people places you in a unique position to communicate and ensure that our response is targeted and impactful.”
Describing their role as guardians of our traditional values and culture as most critical, the President urged them not to compromise their neutrality “because this is what significantly confers on you, your moral authority and legitimacy.”
According to President Buhari, his Chief of Staff, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, would lead senior government officials to various parts of the country “and directly engage with you as part of this process.”
While warning that his administration cannot allow anybody or group to threaten the peace or sabotage its efforts, the President restated that strong, transparent efforts are underway to address those rogue elements of the Nigerian Police Force.
Simultaneously, the Nigerian Police Force will also undergo much-needed reform that covers welfare, working conditions, and code of conduct.
This he said will usher in a more professional workforce.
Recognizing the primary and important role of the monarchs in helping maintain peace and security in the country, the President expressed delight at their visit given all that has happened recently in the country.
While receiving the recommendations of the traditional rulers, he promised to study them and take appropriate action.
President Buhari had earlier drawn the attention of the eminent delegation to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on the world.
He noted, however, that his administration has designed various schemes and taken many measures to soften the impact, despite dwindling resources.
Remarks were made by the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife, His Royal Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, while two foremost traditional rulers representing each geo-political zone also attended the meeting.