The Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, has called on Nigerians to embrace fervent prayers and collective responsibility as the country battles insecurity and other pressing socio-economic challenges.
Speaking on Friday during the 18th Nupe Day celebration at the historic Wadata Palace in Bida, the revered monarch stressed that divine intervention, backed by national unity and patriotism, remains critical to restoring lasting peace and driving sustainable development across the country.
He maintained that prayer continues to be a powerful tool in confronting the nation’s difficulties, urging citizens to seek God’s intervention in overcoming the challenges facing Nigeria.
According to him, “peace is the foundation of meaningful development,” stressing that no nation can attain sustainable progress in an atmosphere of insecurity, disunity and mistrust.
The traditional ruler appealed to Nigerians across ethnic, religious and political divides to prioritise peaceful coexistence, tolerance and mutual understanding, insisting that national stability depends on collective harmony rather than division.
He further urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, governments at all levels, security agencies and community leaders to deepen collaboration in addressing insecurity and other emerging threats confronting the nation.
While acknowledging the efforts being made by government to improve security, Abubakar noted that citizens must also play their part by cooperating with relevant authorities, sharing intelligence, demonstrating patriotism and continually praying for the nation’s peace and prosperity.
The monarch described Nupe Day as more than a cultural festival, saying it serves as an important platform for celebrating the history, traditions and enduring values of the Nupe people while strengthening unity and brotherhood among the people.
He also challenged residents of the Nupe Kingdom to continue upholding the virtues of hard work, honesty, respect for constituted authority and communal harmony, noting that these principles have remained the hallmark of the Nupe nation.
Addressing young people, Abubakar encouraged them to preserve their cultural heritage, pursue education and become positive contributors to national development.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the traditional institution to initiatives aimed at promoting peace, social cohesion and sustainable development in Niger State and across Nigeria.
The celebration featured a special prayer session attended by first-class traditional rulers, eminent title holders, religious leaders and distinguished sons and daughters of the Nupe Kingdom.
Prayers were offered for enduring peace, unity, security, economic prosperity and continued progress of the Nupe Kingdom, Niger State and Nigeria, as well as for divine guidance and protection for the nation’s leaders.
The event also drew traditional rulers from within and outside Niger State, government officials, cultural groups, community leaders and other dignitaries who gathered to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and enduring legacy of the Nupe people.
