Lagos, Nigeria — August 17, 2025 | The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, and monarchs from the Niger Delta region have urged stronger collaboration between traditional rulers and government authorities to promote peace, stability, and development across Nigeria.
Speaking at a royal engagement forum, the Ooni emphasized that traditional rulers serve as the first point of contact for citizens at the grassroots and therefore remain vital in bridging the gap between government policies and community realities. He stressed that excluding royal fathers from critical decision-making weakens policy impact at the local level.
Niger Delta monarchs, in their remarks, pointed to the peculiar challenges of their region — including unemployment, insecurity, and environmental issues — and insisted that a closer working relationship with government would enhance problem-solving and foster community trust.
The monarchs also called for a formal framework that institutionalizes the role of traditional rulers in governance, particularly in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and grassroots development initiatives.
Analysts say the appeal reflects a growing recognition of the traditional institution’s relevance in addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges, especially in areas where conventional government presence is limited.
