Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with traditional institutions as a key driver of inclusive governance and cultural preservation.
Sanwo-Olu stated on Friday at the Opening of the Three-Day Retreat for the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, organized by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, held at Sheraton Hotels, Ikeja, Lagos, stressing that traditional rulers play a critical role in bridging the gap between government policies and the grassroots.
The Governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, said that the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs remains a vital cornerstone in the government’s collective pursuit of sustained growth, inclusive development, and harmony.
According to him, “I firmly believe traditional institutions must remain central to governance. You are the bridge between policy and people, between modern governance and ancestral wisdom. Working together, we can forge a governance model that respects our traditions while positioning Lagos for the future.”
Sanwo-Olu, therefore, assured traditional leaders of his administration’s continued support for their welfare, while reaffirming his resolve to maintain open engagement with traditional institutions.
Speaking further, he noted that the retreat serves as a platform created to harmonize the voices of Lagos’ rich heritage with the policies and vision of the State Government, which aligns with the present administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S. Plus Development Agenda, adding that the platform will give room for jointly explore governance strategies that are grassroots-sensitive, people-centered, and culturally relevant.
While commending the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs for their sacrifice in safeguarding peace, defending cultural heritage, and guiding their communities with wisdom and resilience, the Governor added that their dedication strengthens the fabric of Lagos society. He, therefore, admonished them to continue their noble work, preserve traditions, nurture peace, and champion unity across the state’s diverse communities.
In his address, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa who spoke through the Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, admonished the traditional rulers to live cordially and in peace with one another.
He added that the State House of Assembly is willing to strengthen the relationship with the traditional rulers, urging them to ensure synergy between the house and the traditional leaders, particularly on existing laws which they seek to amend and improve.
Earlier in his welcome address, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert, stated that traditional leaders serve as vital bridge between the grassroots and the Government, emphasizing that their roles in maintaining peace, resolving conflicts, and promoting community development cannot be overemphasised.
Robert added that they are custodians of heritage and values, as they occupy a unique and strategic position, not just as cultural icons, but also as key partners in governance.
Speaking on the retreat, the Commissioner said that sessions are designed to equip traditional rulers with tools and strategies for upholding the dignity of the traditional institution, conflict resolution, and sustainable development, all of which are critical for the continuous growth of Lagos State.
In his goodwill message, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), who was represented by Director, Legislative Drafting, Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Folashade Thomas-Orogan, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to a reform process that honours heritage, promotes dignity, and strengthens the pillars of governance and justice across all levels of society.
Pedro stated that the retreat is significant, as it takes place against the backdrop of the ongoing review of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State, 2015, which provides the legal framework for the recognition and regulation of traditional rulers in the State, is being revisited to ensure it aligns with evolving realities, addresses existing gaps, and strengthens the enduring relevance of the traditional institutions in the governance framework of Lagos State.
His words, “The Lagos State Government recognizes the traditional institution not merely as a ceremonial remnant of the past but as an active and strategic partner in governance, in conflict resolution, cultural preservation, community mobilisation, and peace-building. It is expected that this retreat will be geared towards entrenching this role and enhancing the institutional capacity of all stakeholders, including our Royal Fathers, to continue contributing meaningfully to the development and stability of our State.”
Also, in his goodwill message, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ayinde Shotobi, appealed for deeper collaboration with the State Government, requesting a quarterly audience with the Governor to share grassroots insights and provide advisory support on governance. He emphasized their role in maintaining peace, resolving disputes, and preventing crises, stressing that their contributions should extend beyond times of conflict.
He reiterated that the traditional rulers’ commitment to peace and development, the Obas assured the government that they are not in competition with political leaders but are determined to add value to governance through advisory roles as they continued to support in safeguarding Lagos’ cultural heritage and fostering unity across the state.
