By Passman Akpos
In a renewed gesture of support for grassroots governance and traditional institutions, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has presented utility vehicles to a select group of respected traditional rulers across Southern Nigeria. The presentation, facilitated through the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), marks the second such intervention by the Speaker this year.
According to Tajudeen, the initiative is a deliberate effort to strengthen traditional institutions that continue to play critical roles in peacebuilding, conflict mediation, cultural preservation, and community development.
“Our traditional institutions are not just ceremonial—they are the bedrock of stability in our diverse federation,” he said. “These vehicles are not gifts of comfort; they are tools for duty, enhancing the mobility and effectiveness of leaders who serve as the first point of contact for millions of citizens.”
The beneficiaries of the new vehicles include prominent royal fathers: HRM Ayangburen of Ikorodu, HRM Onikate of Ikate, HRM Paramount Ruler of Okobo Land, Igwe Fidelis Ogbu of Enugu, HRH Igwe Dr. Robert C. of Anambra, HIM Oba Arole-Agbala of Ondo, and HE Ede of Ekiti.
Tajudeen also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold and necessary reforms since assuming office. He highlighted visible gains such as stabilising exchange rates, improving fiscal discipline, expanding agricultural growth, boosting state revenues, and restoring investor confidence.
“Though the reforms have been tough and required sacrifice, the results are already becoming evident. These achievements confirm that the path we are on is the right one,” he noted.
Reaffirming his commitment to national progress, the Speaker stressed that empowering traditional leaders remains essential to sustaining peace and effective governance at the grassroots—an important pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“As we work together to build a stronger Nigeria, supporting and respecting our traditional rulers is vital,” he said. “Together, let’s protect the gains we have made, consolidate our reforms, and ensure that Nigeria’s progress continues beyond 2027.”
The gesture has been widely seen as a boost to local leadership and a reinforcement of the strategic role traditional rulers play in maintaining order and unity across the country.
