Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has emphasized that southern Nigerian governors are committed to partnering with traditional rulers to foster peace, unity, and development in the region.
He made this statement while receiving members of the Technical Committee of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, who paid a courtesy visit to his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Tuesday.
Governor Abiodun hailed traditional rulers as custodians of the region’s cultural heritage, noting their significant role in shaping society. He praised their efforts in promoting peace and fostering collaboration among southern states.
He remarked, “Your influence extends far beyond ceremonial duties; you are the bridge between the people and the government, the closest to the grassroots, the voice of wisdom, and the defenders of our shared values.”
Abiodun, as Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, stressed the governors’ commitment to fostering an environment conducive to collaboration with the traditional rulers.
“We are committed to fostering an environment where this strong partnership with the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council can thrive, where your voices are heard, and where your counsel is considered in the formulation and execution of government policies,”he stated.
The governor highlighted the southern states as the nation’s economic nerve center but acknowledged several challenges, including security issues, youth unemployment, and infrastructure deficits.
He stressed the importance of traditional rulers’ insights at the grassroots level in shaping government policies. He affirmed, “Your role in conflict resolution and peace-building is invaluable… your collaboration with law enforcement and government remains crucial.”
Governor Abiodun also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his economic reforms, particularly highlighting the ongoing construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastline road, which he said would stimulate development in the southern region.
Speaking on behalf of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, Co-Chairman King Jaja of Opobo, Dr. Dandeson Douglas Jaja, emphasized the council’s commitment to fostering unity and promoting cultural traditions. “There is a need for understanding among the traditional rulers and governors of southern Nigeria for peace and development in the region,” King Jaja remarked.
He underscored the council’s goal of advancing national unity and ensuring a stronger voice on critical national issues.
King Jaja further noted that the council’s visit to Governor Abiodun was significant, as he serves as the Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum.
He stated, “We are here, first because you are the chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, and we cannot visit any other governor in southern Nigeria without calling on you as the chairman.”
The Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, reiterated the purpose of the visit, noting that the traditional rulers were in the state to discuss developmental issues and devise solutions to the region’s challenges.
Additionally, members of the Technical Committee in attendance included Oba Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu, and Oba Saheed Ademola Elegusi, the Elegusi of Ikate, among others.
In a related interview, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, Obi of Obinugwa and Co-Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, said the council was focused on discussing key issues such as economic cooperation, regional relationships, and security.
