Just in: President Tinubu meets traditional rulers at Aso villa

President Bola Tinubu on Friday met with top traditional rulers from all around the nation at the State House Conference Centre, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) on Friday paid a courtesy visit  to president Bola Tinubu at the State House Conference Center, Abuja.

It was the first meeting between the President and the traditional rulers since his assumption of office.

The meeting is reportedly a part of President Tinubu’s talks with different stakeholders around the nation and is anchored on his promotion of national healing and unity.

Speaking during the visit, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwunsi who is the co-chair of the NCTRN, urged the President to work with the traditional rulers, given their closeness to the people.

“There are areas we will like to work with you, one of which is security. It is time to use us the more, we are not saying we are idle…but to make your work easier, use us,” he said.

“The foundation of this country today are the traditional rulers. We are here to pledge our loyalty and support.  We want to work with you to ensure you leave a legacy.”

In his own remarks, the sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Abubakar Sa’ad said the visit is a customary tradition by the monarchs whenever there’s a change in leadership of the country.

The sultan said the monarchs do not envy Tinubu at this time, with the numerous challenges facing the country.

He, however, expressed confidence in the combination of Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima to deliver on their mandate.

“We thank God for the smooth way the elections took place. Many negative people thought this country will collapse but we are still here,” he said.

“We are here for you, for our people and our country. If you don’t reach out to us, we will reach out to you.

“We wish you the most successful tenure in good health.”

Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Oba of Benin’s representative Elegushi of Ikate, Jaja of Opobo, Lamido of Adamawa, Emir of Zauzzau, Gbong Gwom Jos, Attah Igala, and Shehu of Borno were in attendance during the meeting.