Vice President Kashim Shettima has reiterated the administration of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the preservation and protection of Nigeria’s traditional institutions.
Speaking on Friday during the 45th Anniversary of the Emir of Gumel, Alhaji Ahmed Sani II, and the commissioning of the Gumel Central Mosque in Gumel Local Government Area of Jigawa State, the Vice President described traditional rulers as the closest leaders to the grassroots and the enduring fathers of society.
“The tenure of every elective political office holder ends after eight years, but the traditional institutions remain for life. Therefore, we must respect them, we must take care of them, and we must preserve as well as protect the institution,” he said.
VP Shettima congratulated the Emir of Gumel on celebrating his 45th anniversary in good health and prayed Almighty God would spare the life of the traditional ruler to witness his Golden Jubilee and centenary celebrations.
“I am quite glad to be back home. Gumel is home. Founded in 1750 by Danjuma, this Emirate has a rich history. When Danjuma died in 1754, he was succeeded by his son, and our royal father who is celebrating his 45th anniversary as the Emir of Gumel is the 13th Emir of Gumel. He is a graduate of Political Science and served as a Commissioner in the cabinet of the late former governor of old Kano State, Alhaji Abubakar Rimi, before he was elevated to the throne of his ancestors. May Allah continue to bless him with good health and may his reign be long,” the Vice President added.
VP Shettima also paid tribute to His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar III, describing him as “truly a leader worthy of emulation by us all” and a “symbol of our unity.”He praised the Sultan’s efforts in fostering national cohesion, noting his tireless engagement across the country.
The Vice President also commended the Governor of Jigawa State, Mallam Umar Namadi, for cultivating 10,000 hectares of wheat more than the combined output of all 18 northern states. “Your Excellency, we thank you; we are mightily proud of you. May the Almighty Allah continue to strengthen our unity and understanding,” he said.
Earlier, Governor Namadi thanked Vice President Shettima for honouring the invitation to the anniversary and mosque commissioning ceremony.
The Sultan of Sokoto, who is also President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, preached unity, tolerance, and mutual respect among all Nigerians regardless of religious and cultural diversity. He congratulated the Emir of Gumel on his 45th anniversary and commended the Vice President for his dedication to the preservation of traditional institutions, peace, unity, and national development.
