Traditional Institutions Key to Peace, Security, Development — Boss Mustapha

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, has emphasised the importance of strengthening traditional institutions across Nigeria, describing them as critical partners in promoting peace, enhancing security and driving sustainable development at the grassroots.

Mustapha stated this yesterday during the conferment of traditional titles and honours by the Hama Bachama, Dr. Daniel Shaga Ismaila, held at the Bachama Kingdom in Adamawa State, where distinguished sons and daughters of the kingdom were recognised for their contributions to community development and public service.

Speaking before traditional rulers, community leaders and invited guests at the ceremony, he said honour should be seen as more than ceremonial recognition, stressing that it represents a call to greater responsibility and service.

According to him, societies progress when recognition is rooted in values such as sacrifice, character, contribution and commitment to the common good.

“Honour is more than decoration. It is society’s way of saying we have seen your labour, we acknowledge your contribution and we expect even greater service,” he said.

Mustapha maintained that traditional titles should not be viewed as symbols of privilege but as responsibilities that demand humility, accountability and continued commitment to society.

He noted that while titles may be publicly conferred, sustaining the values attached to them remains a lifelong obligation.

The former SGF used the occasion to highlight the enduring relevance of traditional institutions, noting that they continue to play strategic roles in preserving identity, resolving disputes and maintaining social cohesion.

According to him, traditional institutions served as pillars of governance long before modern administrative structures emerged and remain indispensable in addressing present-day social and developmental challenges.

He argued that their role has become increasingly important in responding to insecurity and supporting community development.

“In many communities, peace does not begin in government offices; it begins with trusted local leadership, mediation and early responses to emerging tensions,” he said.

Mustapha explained that development initiatives such as infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare and investment can only thrive in environments built on order, trust and collective ownership.

He further observed that traditional rulers often possess a closer understanding of local realities and are better positioned to identify social tensions before they escalate into larger crises.

According to him, stronger collaboration between government institutions and traditional authorities would improve governance outcomes and strengthen public confidence.

Addressing recipients of the honours, Mustapha urged them to regard their recognition as a renewed responsibility to promote peace, encourage responsible leadership and contribute meaningfully to community advancement.

He encouraged them to remain accessible to their communities and to use their influence to support education, enterprise, security and social cohesion.

“Recognition should not create distance from the people. It should deepen service, strengthen listening and reinforce commitment to community advancement,” he said.

Mustapha commended the Hama Bachama and the traditional council for sustaining a culture of honouring merit and preserving values that continue to strengthen communal life.

He also called on citizens to recommit themselves to principles that sustain strong societies, including peaceful coexistence, respect for elders, responsible leadership and support for vulnerable members of society.

He expressed hope that the ceremony would serve not merely as a celebration of achievement but as a renewed covenant of service between those honoured and the communities they represent.

The event concluded with prayers for continued peace, unity and prosperity in the Bachama Kingdom, Adamawa State and Nigeria at large.