Tinubu Holds Traditional Rulers in High Esteem, Shettima Tells New Emir of Gumel

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to working with traditional rulers to promote national unity, strengthen security and accelerate development across Nigeria.

Shettima stated this on Thursday when he received the 17th Emir of Gumel, Dr Lawan Ahmed Muhammad Sani, during a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The Vice President described traditional rulers as indispensable partners in nation-building, noting that their influence within communities makes them critical to maintaining peace, preserving cultural values and promoting national cohesion.

He said the Federal Government regarded traditional rulers as important stakeholders in its efforts to address security challenges and advance the country’s development.

“Traditional rulers serve as our parents and the mirror of our society, safeguarding our noble traditions of peace,” Shettima said.

He commended the new Emir for his commitment to unity and peaceful coexistence, describing him as a combination of traditional leadership and modern technological expertise.

Shettima expressed confidence that the Emir’s background as a technology expert and former bureaucrat would help drive growth and development in the Gumel Emirate and beyond.

The Vice President also assured the delegation of his continued personal support for the people of the emirate, particularly in healthcare, education and other areas of social development.

In his response, the Emir expressed appreciation to the Tinubu administration for its support to the Gumel Emirate, particularly during the death of his predecessor, the late Emir Ahmad Muhammad Sani II.

He said the Gumel Emirate Council would sustain its relationship with the Federal Government to improve the welfare of residents and promote development across different sectors.

The traditional ruler also offered prayers for the re-election of Tinubu and Shettima in the 2027 general elections, while calling for peace and unity among Nigerians during the electioneering period.

Members of the Gumel Emirate Council and other prominent indigenes of the area were present at the meeting.

The visit underscores the administration’s engagement with traditional institutions, which continue to play influential roles in community leadership, conflict resolution and the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.