Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd), says all hands must be on deck to check security challenges across the country.
He stated this at the opening ceremony of a five day seminar and retreat held for traditional rulers from the South-West geo-political zone organised by the Tukur Yusuf Buratai Research Centre, held in Kaduna State.
Lt General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd) described traditional rulers as not only custodians of culture, but critical stakeholders in the scheme of things, especially as it affects security.
He noted that traditional leaders were key in mitigating security challenges in view of their proximity to the grassroot level.
General Buratai, who is also the Chairman of the centre, said the retreat was held to interact with the monarchs, and see how they can jointly harness their knowledge and energy to foster unity and co-operation amongst themselves in order to ensure a safer Nigeria.
Declaring the retreat open, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli said the main role of traditional institutions was in maintaining peace and ensuring security in communities due to the high level of trust and legitimacy, as they form an integral part of community social structure.
He pointed out that through this role, the traditional institutions assist the government in maintaining law and order.
In his remarks, the Orangun of Oke-Ila in Osun State, Oba Adedokun Abolarin said traditional leaders are essential bridges between heritage and aspirations for a secure and prosperous future.
The monarch, who is also the Chairman of Osun group 12, called for support for traditional leaders in their efforts to build peace and security.
There were goodwill messages by the GOC 1 division Kaduna, Emir of Birnin Gwari as well as Overseer at the State Ministry of Internal Security and home affairs, Mr Samuel Aruwan.
Highpoint of the event was unveiling of a book; *General Tukur Yusuf Buratai And The Modernization of The Nigerian Army: 2015-2021* authored by Hussaini Jibrin.
Usman Sani
