Kaduna Traditional Rulers Set for 100% Pay Rise as Zazzau Emir Backs Proposal

The proposed doubling of salaries and allowances for traditional rulers in Kaduna State has received the backing of the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Bamalli.

Bamalli, who chairs the Kaduna State Council of Chiefs, described the proposed increase as a welcome relief, citing rising living costs and the declining value of the naira.

Speaking to journalists at his palace in Zaria on Friday, the Emir said discussions on the adjustment had been ongoing for about seven months, with Governor Uba Sani and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Sadiq Mamman-Lagos, working towards its implementation.

Following the government’s announcement, Bamalli said he was optimistic that the new remuneration package would soon become a reality.

He also highlighted the wider role of traditional rulers in governance, particularly in conflict resolution, grassroots mobilisation and peacebuilding.

Bamalli disclosed that the Zazzau Emirate had resolved more than 2,000 civil cases through its alternative dispute resolution system over the past two years, helping to reduce pressure on conventional courts.

He said the cases largely involved matrimonial disputes, inheritance, land matters and other civil disagreements, while criminal cases were referred to conventional courts.

The Emir attributed the relative peace in the emirate to an inclusive leadership approach that recognises different ethnic and religious communities, including Igbo, Yoruba and Fulani groups, as well as Christian leaders.

He also praised the Kaduna State Government for maintaining a cordial relationship with traditional rulers, saying regular consultation had helped address issues affecting residents.

The proposed pay rise now awaits implementation as traditional rulers continue to play a significant role in community affairs and grassroots governance across the state.