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'Traditional Institutions Will Strengthen Democracy, Preserve Cultural Heritage'

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja

The Federal Government has disclosed that traditional institutions will strengthen democracy, preserve cultural heritage and contribute massively to conflict resolution in line with internationally accepted rules. 

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' on Thursday in Abuja.

He noted that President Bola Tinubu is confident in the power of traditional institutions to bolster peace in the country.

“It (summit) will deepen understanding of democratic institutions and electoral processes, develop skills in post-conflict reconciliation and community healing and promote inclusive governance that ensures meaningful participation of women, youth and marginalised groups. Nigeria’s traditional institutions stand as monuments of endurance, wisdom and legacy," he noted. 

Custodians Of Justice
Traditional institutions are also custodians of justice since the customary laws are fully operational within their domain, though with minor challenges. 

Hashim hinted that before the advent of modern state structures, royal fathers like the Emirs, Obas, Obis and traditional council members have served as custodians of peace, justice, and community cohesion. 

"Today, over 150 million Nigerians living within traditional domains look to these institutions not merely as ceremonial relics of the past but as living, breathing systems of governance that touch their daily lives in profound ways," he said. 

Executive Director of ReCAP-Africa, Mr. Sylvester Nandi-Esom pointed out that the summit is intended to bridge the gap between traditional systems and democratic institutions to promote sustainable peace, especially within the justice system.

Crucial For Stability 
The stability of every nation rests on its strong institutions, government policies and conducive environment that will usher in peaceful coexistence. 

The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Martyn Smythe praised the forthcoming summit, describing it as crucial for Nigeria’s peace and stability.

He added: "We recognise the importance of conflict management rooted in traditional leadership, which remains essential in addressing the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria."

The Program Specialist, Rule of Law, UNDP Nigeria, Mr. Napoleon Enayaba indicated the central role of traditional institutions as unifying structures and critical tools for peacebuilding.

The event was organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Chieftaincy Matters in partnership with the Research Centre for Advocacy and Policy Advisory in Africa (ReCAP-Africa).

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