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The Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamali, has called on the Federal Government to initiate constitutional reforms that would grant traditional rulers formal roles in governance, citing their untapped potential in peacebuilding and grassroots development.
Bamali made the appeal at the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Week (NPRW) “Croc City 2026” forum held at the Hassan Usman Katsina House in Kaduna, where he stressed that traditional institutions remain underutilised despite their historical relevance.
He noted that monarchs, particularly in Northern Nigeria, have long served as stabilising forces even before colonial rule, playing key roles in conflict resolution and community engagement.
“The roles of traditional rulers are underutilised. There should be constitutional backing so they can function efficiently,” he said.
The emir also urged traditional leaders to remain proactive in promoting peace, discouraging violence and curbing hate speech within their domains.
On food security, Bamali linked agricultural productivity to improved security, warning that persistent insecurity continues to limit farming activities. He maintained that lasting peace would only be achieved when farmers can safely access their lands.
Also speaking, Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, assured traditional rulers of greater inclusion in governance under his administration.
Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Sadeeq Maman Lagos, the governor said no government can succeed without the active involvement of traditional institutions, given their deep understanding of local communities.
President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Ike Neliaku, highlighted the importance of strategic communication in fostering sustainable peace, noting that traditional rulers serve as vital links between government and the grassroots.
In a keynote address, the Emir of Birnin Gwari, Zubair Jibril, described traditional rulers as “communication anchors” who interpret government policies for local communities while relaying public concerns back to authorities.
The forum emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to enhance peacebuilding, improve community relations and address food security challenges across Kaduna State.
