Nasarawa State governor, Umar Tanko Almakura has today charged traditional rulers in the state to contribute immensely towards the sustenance of peace, tranquility and harmonious co-existence amongst their people.
The governor, who spoke in the coronation ceremony and the presentation of the First Class Staff of Office to the Emir of Keffi, Nasarawa state, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Shehu Chindo Yamusa III at the play ground of Government College Keffi, said that his administration is partnering with the traditional rulers in their collective determination to unite the people and provide conducive environment for harmonious coexistence for rapid socio-economic development of the society.
“As you are aware, since our coming on board we have remained consistent in our determination to ensure the inclusion of Traditional Rulers in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to enable our Traditional Institution to continue to play its pivotal role as custodians of our traditions, customs, heritage and, indeed, the conscience of the society. It is our conviction that when this is done, the traditional rulers will proactively complement Government efforts towards the development of our society.
“I wish to say that in spite of numerous provocative statements credited to some unpatriotic elements clocked under the guise of restructuring, I want to assure everyone that a joint committee headed by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, the Governor of Sokoto State, comprising Northern Governors and Traditional Rulers would soon come up with a common position that will be in the best interest of not only the North, but Nigeria as a whole.
“Realizing the strategic position of our Royal Fathers, we have since incorporated the traditional institution into the machinery of governance in Nasarawa State by engaging them in the affairs of Government at all levels in the state. This synergy has contributed immensely towards the sustenance of peace, tranquility and harmonious coexistence amongst our diverse people. A case in point is the active participation of our Royal Fathers in the Community Based Conflict Resolution Mechanism of Government in solving the Herdsmen/Farmers crisis I the state. On this note, I wish to recognize the role and efforts of His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto nationwide.”
“I am happy to note that Government has embarked on robust infrastructural development in Keffi and environs. We have networked the city with asphalted roads and completed the abandoned Keffi Modern Market which will open commercial activities for the people. We have also awarded contract of about N400million for the construction of bridge over Antau River to link the municipality of Keffi and Saura community. The E-Library project which this administration constructed in the city is also meant to engender research and linkages, considering the location of the State University and its environs.”
The Governor also commended the emir, saying that as a resourceful lawyer, who worked variously in both public and private sectors, including the academia and has carved a niche for himself, has the ability to unite his people and give hope to the people of Keffi for a better living.
“It is my belief that, given your pedigree, you will uphold the virtues and values of this Emirate Council and abide by the oath of office for the benefit of the people in your domain and the good people of Nasarawa state in general.
Present at the occasion are Governors of Benue, Sokoto and Plateau states, State APC Chairman, Royal Fathers and members, State House of Assembly.