Vice President Kashim Shettima has restated the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s traditional institutions, describing them as irreplaceable pillars of society whose influence and relevance outlive political administrations.
Speaking on Friday at the 45th Anniversary celebration of the Emir of Gumel, HRH Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed Sani II, and the inauguration of the Gumel Central Mosque in Gumel Local Government Area of Jigawa State, Shettima said traditional rulers remain the closest leaders to the grassroots and must be respected and protected.
He noted that while the tenure of elected public officials expires after a maximum of eight years, traditional institutions endure.
“Therefore, we must respect them, we must take care of them, and we must preserve as well as protect the institution,” he said.
The Vice President congratulated the Emir of Gumel on his 45 years on the throne and prayed for long life to witness his Golden Jubilee and, eventually, his centenary celebrations. He highlighted the historic significance of the Gumel Emirate, founded in 1750, and praised the Emir—its 13th ruler—for his leadership and public service legacy.
Shettima also paid tribute to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, describing him as a unifying figure. “He is truly a leader worthy of emulation by us all… He is a symbol of our unity,” he said, commending the Sultan’s constant efforts to promote harmony across the country.
He further applauded Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi for cultivating 10,000 hectares of wheat, praising the achievement as surpassing the combined output of 18 northern states. “Your Excellency, we thank you; we are mightily proud of you,” he remarked.
Earlier, Governor Namadi thanked the Vice President for honouring the state’s invitation to celebrate the Emir’s anniversary and inaugurate the newly completed mosque, expressing appreciation for Shettima’s continued support for Jigawa’s development.
In his remarks, the Sultan of Sokoto urged Nigerians to embrace unity, tolerance and mutual respect regardless of religious or cultural differences. He congratulated the Emir of Gumel on his milestone and commended the Vice President for his dedication to strengthening traditional institutions and promoting peace and national development.
