By Abimbola Bamgbose
President Bola Tinubu has called for stronger collaboration between traditional institutions and modern governance structures to promote national unity, grassroots development, and social stability in the country.
President Tinubu made the call at the final burial ceremony of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, held at Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode.
Represented by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the President described the late monarch as a disciplined and courageous traditional ruler whose reign left enduring legacies in Yorubaland and Nigeria.
President Tinubu noted that traditional rulers remain critical stakeholders in nation-building because of their closeness to the grassroots and their roles in conflict resolution and community peacebuilding.
He explained that the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration was repositioning traditional institutions as active partners in governance, security, economic mobilisation, and national development.
The President also stressed the need for constitutional engagement to provide clearer responsibilities for traditional institutions within Nigeria’s governance structure.
In a keynote address, former President Olusegun Obasanjo described the Awujale as a man of integrity whose reign fostered remarkable development across Ijebuland.
The event formed part of activities marking the final farewell celebration for the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II.
