Gov Otti Charges Traditional Rulers on Ethical Leadership, Peace as Abia Holds Capacity-Building Workshop

By Ezechukwu Adimoha

Governor Alex Otti has declared open a two-day capacity-building workshop organised by the Abia State Government in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for traditional rulers in Abia Central Senatorial District, charging the royal fathers to uphold ethical leadership and promote peace and security in their communities.

Speaking while declaring the workshop open at the Umuahia North Local Government Council Headquarters, Governor Otti said the programme was designed to enhance the leadership capacity of traditional rulers by equipping them with contemporary knowledge and practical skills in conflict resolution, administrative leadership, community development, public health advocacy, youth empowerment, and collaboration with government and security agencies.

Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, the Governor stated that the training was also intended to reconnect the enduring values of the traditional institution with the realities of modern governance.

The Governor further noted that the initiative would strengthen the sense of responsibility among traditional rulers and position them to respond more effectively to the growing leadership expectations at the grassroots.

Describing traditional rulers as critical partners in maintaining peace, stability and development across communities, Governor Otti reminded them that the traditional institution carries profound spiritual and civic responsibilities that must be exercised with integrity, justice and fairness.

In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lady Oge Maduka, described the traditional institution as a vital pillar of governance, culture and social stability, noting that communities flourish when their heritage and values are preserved.

She explained that the workshop was carefully structured to strengthen the leadership capacity of traditional rulers, improve their skills in conflict prevention, mediation and consensus-building, as well as foster stronger collaboration with local government councils, security agencies and other development partners.

Speaking with journalists at the event, the Traditional Ruler of Oro-Ibere Autonomous Community in Ikwuano Local Government Area, Eze Stanley Ijenwa, and the Traditional Ruler of Nkwoegwu Autonomous Community, Eze Paul Uzuegbu, described the workshop as timely and impactful. They said it would broaden their knowledge of modern leadership and governance, enhance their ability to resolve communal disputes, and strengthen their partnership with government in advancing grassroots development.

The royal fathers expressed optimism that the lessons from the workshop would further empower traditional rulers to provide more effective leadership and contribute meaningfully to peace, security and sustainable development across the state.

Delivering a lecture titled, “Your Health, Lifestyle and Role in Promoting Community Health,” a medical doctor with the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Umuahia, Dr Joy Ogechukwu, urged traditional rulers to adopt healthy lifestyles and prioritise regular medical check-ups to remain physically fit for their responsibilities as fathers, custodians of culture and community leaders.

The workshop attracted traditional rulers from across Abia Central Senatorial District, senior government officials, resource persons and other stakeholders in local government administration.