Anambra Traditional Rulers Urged to Lead with Integrity, Embrace Positive Cultural Values

Traditional rulers from across Anambra State have been urged to promote peace, justice and community development by embracing positive cultural values and providing responsible leadership.

The call was made during the maiden Anambra State Traditional Rulers Summit organised by Dominion City in collaboration with Global Missions Network Nigeria. The event brought together royal fathers, government officials, church leaders and other stakeholders to discuss ways of building stronger and more peaceful communities.

Speaking at the summit, the Senior Pastor and President of Dominion City, Pastor David Ogbueli, urged traditional rulers to lead with integrity, fairness and compassion. He encouraged them to protect widows, the less privileged and other vulnerable members of society while reviewing customs and traditions that no longer promote development.

According to him, community leaders have a responsibility to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the people while embracing values that encourage peace, education, progress and unity.

The Anambra State Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Barrister Vincent Ezeaka, said there was an urgent need for cultural and moral reorientation to tackle growing social problems affecting communities. He pledged the state government’s support for Dominion City’s youth and community development programmes and expressed optimism that the summit would become an annual event.

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Christopher Ndubuisi, commended the organisers for creating a platform that promotes ethical leadership and positive cultural values. He urged traditional rulers to apply the lessons learnt at the summit to strengthen peace and development in their communities despite current economic challenges.

Also speaking, Apostle Victor Uchegbunam said some harmful traditional practices have slowed development in many Igbo communities. He encouraged traditional rulers to embrace values that promote moral renewal, social harmony and sustainable development.

In his presentation, Apostle Gbenga Adegbenro explained that the summit was designed to strengthen cooperation between religious and traditional institutions in addressing community challenges. He noted that similar programmes had been successfully held in other states and called on participants to remain committed to values that unite communities.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Iweka Chidubem, appreciated Dominion City and Global Missions Network for organising the summit. He also recognised the contributions of the traditional ruler of Umuawulu, Igwe Joel Egwuonwu, for promoting Christian values and peaceful coexistence across communities.

The summit ended with participants reaffirming their commitment to preserving the rich Igbo cultural heritage while rejecting harmful practices that hinder development. They also pledged to continue promoting peace, unity and good leadership as the foundation for sustainable growth in Anambra State.