The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s traditional institutions as vital mechanisms for conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and democratic governance.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Abbas Tijjani Hashim, stated this at the launch of the “Traditional Leaders Summit on Mediation, Conflict Management, and Peacebuilding for Sustainable Democracy and Peaceful 2027 General Elections,” held in Abuja.
Mr. Hashim said President Bola Tinubu believes deeply in the power of traditional institutions to transform Nigeria’s peace architecture, strengthen democracy, and preserve cultural heritage while adapting to modern realities.
“Today, we operationalize that belief through concrete programs with clear timelines, measurable outcomes, and comprehensive stakeholder engagement.
“Together, we will preserve indigenous wisdom while building capacity for contemporary challenges. Together, we will ensure that Nigeria’s traditional institutions remain not just relevant but central to our nation’s peace, stability, and democratic consolidation” he said.
He emphasized that the country is at a critical juncture in its democratic journey and must strategically invest in traditional institutions that directly impact the lives of millions of Nigerians.
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The Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, described traditional rulers as the frontline peacebuilders in local communities.
He said the summit provides a platform for traditional rulers to share experiences, foster dialogue, and promote unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Together, we can build a future where democracy thrives, conflicts are resolved peacefully, and Nigeria moves forward in unity and prosperity,” he added.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Protocol, Ambassador Isaah Niniola, noted that the Department of State Services (DSS) is working to ensure the nation remains safe and conflict-free.
He stressed the need for effective early warning systems to prevent violence.
‘Assembly of the common man’
The Chairman, House Committee on Traditional Institutions, Mr. Mohammed Abdulmumin, said the National Assembly is committed to partnering with relevant institutions to ensure peace during the 2027 elections.
He described the 10th Assembly as an inclusive “Assembly of the common man,” where citizens’ voices are heard and respected.”
The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Martyn Smythe, commended the initiative, describing it as crucial for Nigeria’s peace and stability.
“We recognize the importance of conflict management rooted in traditional leadership, which remains essential in addressing the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria,” he said.
Tools for peacebuilding
In his remarks, the Program Specialist, Rule of Law, UNDP Nigeria, Mr. Napoleon Enayaba, highlighted the central role of traditional institutions as unifying structures and critical tools for peacebuilding.
The Executive Director of the Research Centre for Advocacy and Policy Advisory in Africa (ReCAP-Africa), Mr. Sylvester Nandi-Esom, said the summit aims to bridge the gap between traditional systems and democratic institutions to promote sustainable peace, especially within the justice system.
The event was jointly organized by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Chieftaincy Matters and the Research Centre for Advocacy and Policy Advisory in Africa (ReCAP-Africa).