Shettima calls for stronger ties between FG, traditional institutions

He reiterated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to engaging royal fathers as vital stakeholders in national development and social cohesion.

During a visit to Ningi Emirate in Bauchi State yesterday, the Vice President expressed his condolences for the late Emir of Ningi, HRH Alhaji Yunusa Muhammed DanYaya.

Senator Shettima also extended his congratulations to the newly installed Emir, HRH Alhaji Haruna Yunusa Danyaya, the eldest son of the late Emir.

He underscored the importance of traditional institutions as the guardians of culture, values, and history, stating that they form the backbone of society.

He highlighted the essential role traditional institutions play in fostering national unity and societal stability while serving as a reminder of the nation’s roots and the essence of its diversity.

Shettima expressed: “On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, myself, and the entire government of Nigeria, I extend our heartfelt condolences for the loss of an Emir who left behind a legacy of integrity, service, and peace. We also congratulate you, HRH Alhaji Haruna Yunusa Danyaya, on your new role and pledge our unwavering support during your reign,” as noted in a statement by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.

“These institutions not only remind us of our origins but also inspire us to appreciate the richness of our diversity. The Emirate, under your late father’s leadership, was a guiding light for many, and his contributions will be cherished.”

Shettima commended the late Emir for his 88 years of dedicated service to the nation, recalling that “he was not only the longest-reigning Emir in Ningi’s history, but also served the nation in various capacities even prior to his ascension.”

Addressing the newly appointed Emir, the VP assured him of the Federal Government’s support and highlighted the significance of continuity in leadership.

“We stand with you as partners in progress, and our doors are always open to our traditional leaders for wisdom, guidance, and counsel,” he remarked.

The Vice President also pointed out the strong ties between the Federal Government and the Ningi Emirate, mentioning several natives of Bauchi State serving in the Presidency, including his ADC, N.Y. Sule, and Malam Ahmed Ishaq Ningi, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital Media and National Emergency (Office of the Vice President).

Earlier, Bauchi State Governor Senator Bala Mohammed expressed gratitude to Vice President Shettima for his visit, describing him as a humble leader who commands respect.

“On behalf of myself, the government, and the people of Bauchi State and Ningi Emirate, I welcome you to Bauchi State. You are here as one of the nation’s leaders,” he stated.

Governor Mohammed referred to the Vice President’s visit as “a double-edged sword,” aimed at both comforting the people and congratulating the new Emir, Alhaji Haruna Danyaya, who is the eldest son of the late Emir.

In response, the new Emir of Ningi thanked the Vice President for his visit to express condolences and for meeting with the Emirate Council. He also expressed appreciation to Governor Mohammed for endorsing his installation as his father’s successor.

Among the attendees were the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Hon. Abubakar Y. Suleiman; Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Sen. Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia; Special Adviser to the President on General Duties, Aliyu Modibbo Umar; district heads from the area councils, and other senior government officials.

Additionally, Shettima, representing President Tinubu, visited Kaduna State to offer condolences to the Kaduna State Government and the family of the late Hon. Justice Tanimu Zailani, former Chief Judge of Kaduna State.

Shettima expressed sorrow over Justice Zailani’s passing and prayed for Allah to grant him Aljannah Firdaus, as well as the family the strength to cope with their loss.

“I am here at the behest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who called me from China and directed me to visit Kaduna and condole with the state government and the bereaved family. Hon. Justice Tanimu Zailani was a close ally to both President Tinubu and myself, and his death is a profound loss. We pray that Allah overlooks his shortcomings and grants him eternal rest.”

Justice Zailani held the position of Head of the Kaduna State Judiciary and served as the Chief Judge of the High Court of Kaduna State from 2013 to 2018.