Traditional Institutions Key to Nation-Building, Peaceful Coexistence — Boss Mustapha

YOLA —By Ojoma Yusuf,Yola

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, has emphasized the critical role of traditional institutions in promoting peace, security, development, and national cohesion, describing them as “living institutions” that remain central to Nigeria’s nation-building efforts.

Mustapha made the remarks during the conferment of honorary traditional titles on 22 distinguished sons, daughters, and friends of the Bachama Kingdom by the Hama Bachama, Homun Dr. Daniel Ismaila Shaga, in Numan, Adamawa State.

According to the former SGF, traditional institutions serve as vital bridges between government and citizens, helping to connect public policies with the realities of local communities.

Addressing traditional rulers, community leaders, dignitaries, and guests at the ceremony, Mustapha noted that traditional honours go beyond public recognition and should be seen as reflections of service, sacrifice, and commitment to community development.

He stated that every title bestowed by a traditional institution carries with it the responsibility to serve others and contribute positively to society.

Mustapha, who was also conferred with the title of Ngra Bachama, urged all recipients to embrace their new responsibilities by promoting peace, unity, education, security, and economic development within their communities.

He further commended the Hama Bachama and the Bachama Traditional Council for sustaining the culture of recognizing outstanding contributions to society, describing the practice as an important means of promoting values such as service, character, responsibility, and community engagement.

Also speaking at the event, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, represented by his deputy, Professor Kaletapwa Farauta, called on citizens of the Bachama Chiefdom to embrace peaceful coexistence as a foundation for sustainable development and progress.

The governor stressed that peace remains fundamental to human existence, providing the stability necessary for individuals to thrive, communities to develop, and societies to prosper.

He noted that the conferment of traditional titles is not merely an honour but a call to greater service and responsibility, urging awardees to work together in promoting unity and accelerating development across Bachama land.

Among the recipients was the Director-General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, who was conferred with the title of Dyamso Bachama.

Speaking after receiving the honour, Nkom described traditional title conferment as more than a ceremonial event, saying it fosters unity, harmony, and peaceful coexistence.

He observed that traditional institutions have remained at the forefront of promoting peace, unity, and development in Nigeria, serving as champions of social harmony, security, and integration within communities.

Nkom expressed gratitude to the Hama Bachama and the Bachama Traditional Council for finding him worthy of the honour despite not being a Bachama indigene.

He said the recognition would further strengthen the rich cultural ties between the people of Adamawa and Kaduna states. He also commended the efforts of both the Adamawa State Government and the Federal Government in addressing insecurity across the state and the country.

Another recipient, Dr. Agoso Bamaiyi, who was conferred with the title of Nzobyalata Hama Bachama and named spokesman of the king, expressed profound appreciation to the Hama Bachama for the honour.

Bamaiyi noted that the title was first held by the late iconic and respected Uncle Timawus Mathias, describing it as a revered position within the kingdom.“I humbly walk in his giant footsteps as the second holder of that revered title.

My heart is filled with gratitude,memories, and deep reflection,” he said.In his remarks, the Hama Bachama, Homun Dr. Daniel Ismaila Shaga, stressed that the importance of peace to societal development cannot be overemphasized.

The traditional ruler called on all communities within the chiefdom to embrace unity, love, and mutual understanding.

“I urge you to pray and work tirelessly for the promotion of peace among yourselves,” he said.

The colourful ceremony attracted traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, and prominent personalities from within and outside Adamawa State, underscoring the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in fostering peace, unity, and development across Nigeria.