TBRC Hosts Leadership Retreat for Traditional Rulers: Fostering Security and Building Bridges
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
In a landmark event inspired by the late Kofi Annan’s belief that “Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress in every society and every family,” the Tukur Buratai Research Centre (TBRC) organized a transformative five-day seminar and retreat for traditional rulers. Themed “Traditional Institutions and Contemporary Security Challenges in Nigeria,” the retreat was held from May 20–25, 2024, at the picturesque Fifth Chukker Polo Club and Resort, on the outskirts of Kaduna along the Kaduna-Jos Road in Katabu.
The seminar aimed to empower traditional leaders, particularly those from the Southwest geopolitical zone, with a focus on Osun State, collectively referred to as “Group 12.” The initiative highlighted the pivotal role these leaders play in promoting peace, security, and harmonious relationships within their domains. His Royal Highness, Mallam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, Emir of Zazzau, attended as the Special Guest of Honour, delivering the Keynote Address and formally opening the retreat.
Throughout the seminar, participants engaged in a series of intellectually stimulating activities, featuring presentations from esteemed intellectuals, academicians, seasoned security experts, and senior retired military officers. Notable speakers included Professor Abdullahi Musa Ashafa, Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies at Kaduna State University, and Lieutenant General LO Adeosun (rtd) CFR, former Chief of Policy and Plans (Army). The interactive sessions facilitated open dialogue and the exchange of ideas among participants.
A significant highlight was the presentation of the scholarly book “Gen Tukur Yusuf Buratai and the Modernization of the Nigerian Army 2015 – 2021,” authored by Associate Professor Husseini Jibrin, Head of the Department of History and War Studies at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna. The book was reviewed by Dr. Shu’aibu Shehu, Director General of Arewa House, Kaduna, and presented by His Royal Highness, Alhaji Zubair Jibril Maigwari II, CFR, the Ameer of Birnin Gwari.
Participants also visited key locations such as the Jaji military cantonment and the Emir of Zazzau’s palace in Zaria, providing practical insights into the operational aspects of security and traditional leadership. On the fourth day, the Tukur and Tukur Foundation organized a health talk and medical outreach, led by Colonel Haruna Zaria (rtd). Ms. Damisola Matti-Balogun of Head2Feet Wellness and Dr. Shaba Muhammad of the National Eye Centre, Kaduna, addressed critical health issues, emphasizing the importance of well-being.
The seminar concluded with a grand ceremony where participants received certificates of attendance from the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of TBRC, Ambassador Lieutenant General TY Buratai (rtd) CFR. This was followed by a tour of notable sites in Kaduna and a vibrant dinner night showcasing performances by the Kaduna State Cultural Dance Troupe, Makadan Sarkin Zazau, and renowned artist Fati Niger, celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
The event was attended by senior military officers (both serving and retired), doctoral candidates, security experts, and members of the academia and intelligentsia from across the country. This diverse gathering underscored the importance and impact of the retreat.
By engaging traditional rulers and other stakeholders in critical conversations, the TBRC highlighted the essential roles these leaders play in fostering a peaceful, secure, informed, and cohesive nation. The seminar and retreat were a testament to the immense value of empowering traditional institutions in contemporary society.
TBRC Hosts Leadership Retreat for Traditional Rulers: Fostering Security and Building Bridges