Traditional rulers hold a significant role in Nigeria's community development. They have been instrumental in resolving disputes and conflicts, promoting mutual trust and cultural harmony, providing leadership, and ensuring socio-economic development.
What are Functions of Traditional Rulers in Community Development
Here are 12 functions of traditional rulers in Nigeria community development:
1. Conflict Resolution: Traditional rulers are responsible for resolving conflicts within the community, whether among individuals or groups. They play a key role in preventing violence and mediating disputes.
2. Arbitration: They act as arbitrators in disputes between community members and also in conflicts between the community and other communities.
3. Preservation of Culture and Tradition: They help to preserve and promote the community's cultural identity and tradition. They are seen as guardians of the community's heritage.
4. Maintaining Law and Order: They uphold law and order by enforcing community rules and regulations. They maintain peace and security in the community by liaising with security agents.
5. Provision of Leadership: Traditional rulers provide leadership by setting an example for the community and guiding community members towards the realization of development goals.
6. Promotion of Socio-Economic Development: Traditional rulers collaborate with various groups to foster socio-economic development, including the provision of infrastructure and basic amenities.
7. Influence in Government Matters: They represent their community's interests and communicate their needs to the government officials.
8. Encouragement of Education: Some traditional rulers establish schools, provide scholarship opportunities and carry out other education-related initiatives in their communities to encourage the education of the youth.
9. Mobilization of Community Members: They mobilize members of the community towards achieving common objectives, such as community development or collective progress.
10. Supervision of Festivals and Ceremonies: Traditional rulers play significant roles in organizing festivals and ceremonies that celebrate the community's heritage, promoting tourism, and boosting the community's economy.
11. Facilitate Entrepreneurial Activities: They mentor and support small-scale entrepreneurs to achieve growth in the economy.
12. Representation Overseas: Some traditional rulers also engage in diplomatic activities, representing the community's interests across the country and sometimes at the global stage.