Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reaffirmed the unwavering support of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) for traditional rulers, emphasizing the critical role they must play in Nigeria’s evolving governance landscape.
Speaking in Abuja after a joint meeting between the NGF and the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), Uzodimma, who chairs the joint committee, stressed the importance of passing the bill to formally establish a National Council for Traditional Rulers. The bill, which has reached its second reading in the Senate, presents a pivotal opportunity to institutionalize traditional leadership within the country’s constitutional framework.
“This gathering serves as a timely platform to harmonize our collective stance,” the governor said. “It’s essential that the bill reflects the realities of grassroots governance and the true dynamics of our communities.”
Uzodimma underlined that embedding traditional rulers in national and state security councils should not be considered ceremonial. Rather, it is a strategic move to leverage their grassroots influence for improved governance and security. He recalled a special session last year between the NGF and the NCTRN, which explored the integration of traditional leaders into rural governance.
Following that meeting, NGF and NCTRN members formed a subcommittee to develop specific proposals. These included constitutional recommendations that would define the roles and responsibilities of traditional institutions. The subcommittee’s report has now been presented and received near-unanimous support from forum members.
“Our final recommendations will soon be tabled before the broader NGF board for approval,” Uzodimma revealed. “Once adopted, we’ll collaborate with the National Assembly to ensure these inputs are reflected in the ongoing constitutional amendment process.”
The governor highlighted that the timing of this initiative aligns with growing security concerns and weakening community ties across Nigeria. He argued that solutions must extend beyond centralized governance to include local actors with deep-rooted influence.
“Traditional leaders are vital in early warning systems, conflict resolution, and supporting law enforcement efforts. Their formal inclusion is both necessary and overdue,” Uzodimma concluded.
He emphasized that strengthening traditional institutions will aid national stability and revitalize grassroots governance, placing Nigeria on a stronger, more inclusive foundation for the future.
