By Segun Adewale in Bauchi
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has reaffirmed the critical role of traditional institutions in governance with the distribution of vehicles to Emirs and District Heads across the state.
Addressing the gathering at the Dr. Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu Square, Government House, Bauchi Monday, Governor Bala Mohammed said the distribution of the vehicles carries both symbolic and practical significance.
He explained that symbolically, the gesture represents the respect, esteem, and trust his administration places in traditional institutions, reaffirming their indispensable role in the governance architecture of the state.
On the practical side, the Governor noted that the vehicles are essential tools to enhance mobility, improve reach, and strengthen the effectiveness of traditional rulers in discharging their responsibilities, including community engagement, conflict resolution, monitoring developments, and collaboration with security agencies.
He announced that the government is distributing 14 GMC vehicles, 14 brand-new utility vehicles, 14 buses, and 114 units of Toyota Camry cars to District Heads, describing the investment as deliberate, strategic, and necessary for strengthening peace, order, and development at the grassroots.
Governor Bala Mohammed emphasized that traditional rulers remain the first point of contact for the people and play a pivotal role in conflict resolution, early warning and response to security threats, community mobilization, and the promotion of moral values and social discipline.
On welfare and administration, the Governor disclosed that the present administration is reviewing and improving the emoluments of traditional rulers while ensuring the consistent release of statutory allocations to support their operations.
He, however, cautioned that such funds must be managed with transparency and accountability, warning that mismanagement would not be tolerated.
Earlier, in his welcome address the Secretary to the state Government(SSG), Hon. Aminu Hammayo, said the gesture reflects government’s recognition of the vital role played by Emirs and District Heads in maintaining peace, fostering unity, and supporting development initiatives across communities.
He described the occasion as a major milestone in the administration’s efforts to reposition traditional institutions for effective grassroots governance.
In a vote of thanks, on behalf of the Emirs and District Heads, the Emir of Bauchi Alhaji Rilwanu Sulaiman Adamu, expressed deep appreciation to the Governor for the gesture, describing it as a demonstration of commitment to strengthening traditional institutions.
