Traditional rulers from across northern Nigeria gathered in Maiduguri for the 7th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council.

The meeting took place in Borno State on Tuesday, April 15, with the theme: “Enhanced Security as a Panacea for Stability and Development in the North.”

Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Sa’ad Abubakar III, chaired the meeting. He said the gathering was vital in finding ways to tackle growing insecurity.

“Our people face kidnappings, killings, and fear every day. We must speak together and act together to restore peace,” he said.

Many first-class monarchs from the 19 northern states attended the meeting. The Emir of Kano, Emir of Zazzau, Shehu of Borno, and several others were present.

They shared reports about worsening insecurity in their areas. They spoke about killings, displaced people, and how communities now rely on vigilante groups.

“We cannot continue to bury our people in silence,” one ruler said.

Focus on Security and Local Vigilance

The meeting focused on improving local security efforts. Participants agreed that federal forces alone cannot stop banditry and terrorism.

They discussed reviving traditional intelligence networks in rural areas. These include palace messengers, local hunters, and farmers who know the terrain.

“Our people know who enters and leaves the villages. If we involve them more, the criminals will have fewer places to hide,” another ruler said.

They also called for better cooperation between security agencies and traditional rulers. Many said they feel left out of key decisions despite being closest to the people.

State governors from the region were invited to join the talks. Borno Governor Babagana Zulum welcomed the monarchs and praised their role in promoting peace.

“You are the backbone of our communities. Your support is key to rebuilding trust and fighting insecurity,” he told them.

Calling for Dialogue and Development

The meeting also talked about the causes of insecurity. They agreed that poverty, poor education, and weak governance make young people easy targets for criminal groups.

They said more investments in schools, roads, and farming would reduce violence over time.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, explained that the meeting aimed to strengthen unity among northern states and support political leadership in addressing regional problems.

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“Our youths need jobs, not bullets. Development is the real answer to peace,” the Emir of Zazzau said.

The council promised to visit the President with a formal report. They want the federal government to recognize traditional institutions as partners in national security.

The meeting ended with a call for unity among northern leaders.

“If we are divided, the enemies of peace will win. But if we stand together, we will overcome,” the Sultan said.

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