FCT Minister seeks royal fathers, FG collaboration in promoting traditional institution

The FCT Minister, Alhaji Muhammad Bello, on Saturday in Bwari urged royal fathers to cooperate with the Federal Government in promoting traditional institutions.
Bello made the call at the 40 years anniversary of Alhaji Musa Ijakoro, as the Emir of Bwari Area Council.
Bello was represented by Dr Musa Aliyu, Acting-Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat in the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCTA), Finance and Administration.
The minister promised to partner with the traditional rulers to bring about the development of traditional institutions in all the area councils of the FCT.
“I assure all traditional rulers of the FCT that government will always be available to support any programmes that involved traditional institutions.
“We will do whatever is necessary to ensure the success of the institutions within the FCT.
“We need your cooperation to promote the growth of traditional institutions in Nigeria.’’
He commended the royal fathers for their various roles aimed at ensuring smooth conduct of the just concluded FCT polls.
According to him, the role played by the traditional rulers is highly appreciated.
In her remarks, the Wife of the President, Mrs Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, commended the Ijakoro for his contributions towards nation building.
Buhari, who was represented by Mrs Pauline Tallen, Former Deputy Governor of Plateau State, prayed for God’s blessings and guidance upon the Emir.
“I recall your wonderful support and blessings in most times of struggle in the process of the nation building.
“I remember this palace as a place that always been our home; I pray for more wisdom, good health and long life and that you continue to enjoy peaceful reign as a royal father,” she said.
Responding, Ijakoro, expressed gratitude to the almighty God for the 40 years he had served on the throne as Emir.
“I feel at ease and I am happy for being a royal father for 40 years; many people have been turbaned and have died; most of the royal leaders in my capacity too are no more.
“I thank the almighty Allah for preserving my life till this point in time.”
He advised Nigerians to remain united irrespective of their ethnic or religious differences.
“We must support government’s policies and programmes to sustain the peace and development of Nigeria,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the high points of the event were citation of the royal father on his 40th anniversary, well wishes by traditional rulers and cultural dance displays. (NAN)