By Abba Dukawa
The Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, His Eminence Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar II, urged governors of the 19 Northern states to listen attentively to their critics and use constructive feedback to strengthen governance across the region.
He warned that dismissing criticism could slow efforts to tackle the region’s pressing challenges, including insecurity, poverty, and economic hardship.
He made the call during a joint meeting of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council held on Monday at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna.
The Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar II,said no leader seeking the people’s mandate would deliberately turn away from citizens after assuming office.
The Sultan lamented that governors are often unfairly accused of inaction despite the immense pressures they face.
He urged the governors to “listen to critics, listen to criticisms, listen to critiques, and make amendments whenever these arise,” stressing that genuine feedback can guide better decision-making.
While expressing confidence in the governors, the Sultan reminded them of the need for unity and intensified collaboration.
Sa’ad Abubakar II, also called for more frequent engagement between governors and traditional rulers across the geopolitical zones, proposing structured meetings to harmonise decisions affecting the North.
