President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed TinubuPresident of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu has described traditional rulers as the closest link between government and the grassroots.
Speaking on Friday in Lagos during the launch of the autobiography of former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, His Royal Highness, Oba (Dr) Samuel Olu Falae, Tinubu urged monarchs to serve as agents of peacebuilding.
The president, who was represented at the occasion by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, said traditional institutions remain indispensable to governance.
“Our royal fathers are the closest link between government and the grassroots.
“Your palaces must remain centres of peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and moral guidance,” Tinubu said.
The president tasked the traditional rulers with actively addressing the country’s security challenges and promoting unity across diverse communities.
He said that beyond their ceremonial roles, royal fathers must serve as stabilising forces within their domains, leveraging their influence to encourage peaceful coexistence and strengthen social cohesion.
“Peace and security are not solely the responsibility of government; they are collective duties,” Tinubu said.
He also appealed to monarchs to promote dialogue, discourage violence and strengthen cohesion within their domains.
The President described the event, which attracted political leaders, traditional rulers, and members of the diplomatic community, as more than a ceremonial book launch, but a reflection on leadership, service, and national ethos embodied by Oba Falae.
He described Oba Falae as a bridge between tradition and modern governance in addition to applauding his legacy in public service, economic management and cultural leadership.
Tinubu x-rayed Falae’s career, from his stewardship as finance minister to his current role as the Olu-Abo of Ilu-Abo in Ondo State, saying it represented a rare blend of technocratic discipline and traditional authority.
