By Kehinde Erin
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, recently participated in a subcommittee meeting in Abuja, alongside fellow Governors and traditional rulers.
The meeting was jointly convened by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the National Council of Traditional Rulers, highlighting a collaborative effort between governmental and traditional leadership.
The meeting’s objective was to thoroughly discuss a proposed bill designed to officially establish the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, paving the way for its formal recognition and operational framework.
At its core, the bill seeks to introduce significant amendments to the 1999 Constitution, with the objective of according traditional rulers a formal, constitutionally recognised position in the country’s governance framework.
Specifically, it proposes to empower them with advisory responsibilities in key domains such as security, cultural heritage preservation, conflict resolution, and the maintenance of public order, thereby enhancing their contributions to national stability and development.
Recognising and institutionalising the role of traditional rulers is a strategic initiative that promotes a holistic representation of Nigeria’s diverse identity.
This move acknowledges the necessity for an inclusive governance framework that respects the country’s multi-ethnic and cultural diversity.