Vice-President Kashim Shettima has reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s deep respect for traditional rulers, describing them as vital custodians of Nigeria’s cultural heritage and key stakeholders in national development.
Shettima made the statement during an interactive meeting with traditional rulers in Ondo State on Tuesday in Akure.
“President Bola Tinubu holds traditional rulers in the highest esteem. He sees them as integral to the nation’s unity, development, and cultural preservation,” the Vice President said.
“He is one of you; he respects you, he values and cherishes you. You are the closest leaders to the grassroots, and the President recognises the pivotal role you play in governance.”
Shettima highlighted Tinubu’s appreciation for the support given by monarchs during the last governorship election in Ondo State.
“The President heard your voice when I visited Akure before the last election. You endorsed Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and he went on to win in all 18 local government areas of the state. The President remains grateful. One good turn deserves another,” he said.
He assured the monarchs that their pleas and suggestions would be relayed to the President for consideration. Shettima also referenced the numerous chieftaincy titles conferred on Tinubu nationwide as a testament to the President’s longstanding ties with the traditional institution.
Commending Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies, Shettima described the President as a courageous leader who is committed to repositioning Nigeria for long-term growth.
“He feels the pain of Nigerians and is determined to deliver impactful results. The benefits of his infrastructural and economic programmes will soon begin to manifest,” he stated.
He called on Nigerians to support the administration, describing Tinubu as “a game changer” focused on transformative leadership.
Earlier, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa expressed appreciation to the Vice President for meeting with traditional rulers in the state. He also thanked the royal fathers for their continued support of his administration.
“You are the true grassroots mobilisers, and your support has been instrumental to the success of our government,” the governor said, promising continued inclusion of traditional rulers in state policies and development plans.
Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, the Olowo of Owo, commended the Tinubu administration’s policies, noting that they have already begun to yield visible results.
“This administration has demonstrated a commitment to peace, development, and engagement with traditional institutions. We are grateful for the attention given to us and to the welfare of the people,” Oba Ogunoye said.
He also lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for his performance, especially in ensuring the welfare of traditional rulers, including timely payment of their entitlements and provision of a befitting secretariat.
The monarchs pledged continued support for the President and the Ondo State government.
Dignitaries at the meeting included Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State; Mrs. Esther Aiyedatiwa, Wife of the Ondo State Governor; Ondo State Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade; and the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo.
