As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, the Olowu of Kuta Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr.) Hammed Adekunle Oyelude Makama, Tegbosun III, CON, has called for greater attention to grassroots development, community values and the role of traditional institutions in shaping the country’s future.
Oba Makama said the strength and direction of Nigeria’s future are closely connected to the quality of citizens produced within its communities, stressing that national development cannot be separated from the values, discipline and sense of responsibility nurtured at the grassroots.
In his Independence Day message, the monarch emphasised that traditional institutions have a significant responsibility in helping communities raise responsible citizens and preserve values capable of strengthening the country’s social fabric.
“Nigeria’s prosperity begins from each palace,” the monarch stated, underscoring the connection between responsible community leadership and the broader development aspirations of the nation.
Oba Makama noted that traditional rulers occupy a unique position within their communities because of their close relationship with the people and their understanding of local realities.
According to him, this position enables traditional institutions to contribute to peacebuilding, community security, public enlightenment, cultural preservation and constructive engagement between citizens and government authorities.
He maintained that traditional rulers can also serve as effective channels of communication between communities and public institutions, particularly when addressing issues concerning security, welfare, social cohesion and local development.
The Olowu, however, stressed that stronger collaboration between traditional institutions and government remains essential if the potential of the traditional system is to be fully harnessed for national development.
He called for a collective approach to nation-building, involving government institutions, traditional authorities, community leaders and citizens in the pursuit of peace, prosperity and sustainable development.
Traditional Institutions Must Adapt
Reflecting on the changing nature of society, Oba Makama acknowledged that traditional institutions operate in an increasingly dynamic world where communities face new social, economic, technological and security challenges.
He therefore advocated an approach to traditional leadership that preserves cultural identity while responding responsibly to contemporary realities.
The monarch described royalty as a natural avenue for service to humanity, stressing that occupying a traditional throne should come with a commitment to the welfare, peace and advancement of the people.
He urged Nigerians to use the Independence anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on their collective responsibilities and the role each citizen can play in building a stronger country.
Oba Makama said meaningful national progress would ultimately depend on what is done within individual communities, where citizens are raised, values are transmitted and relationships between leaders and the people are forged.
As Nigeria celebrates another year of independence, the monarch’s message places the grassroots at the centre of the national conversation, arguing that a stronger nation can only emerge from communities where responsible leadership, good values, peaceful coexistence and service to humanity are consistently promoted.
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