Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, the President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan and National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Bola Tinubu have congratulated the new Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Ahmed Bamalli.
In separate statements on Wednesday, they prayed for wisdom for him as he discharges the onerous task ahead of him.
In a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Mr. Paul Ibe, Atiku urged the new Emir to focus on confidence-building efforts in his domain.
He described Bamalli as one of the youngest traditional rulers in recent years and a well travelled diplomat of ambassadorial pedigree, adding: ”Although the shoes of the late Emir are big, I am confident that Bamalli is up to the task and responsibilities expected of him.”
The former vice president expressed optimism that as a technocrat and ambassador, Bamalli will add value to the throne by bringing development to his people.
He added that peace and unity were some of the challenges facing Nigeria, including Kaduna State, and urged the new emir to focus on confidence-building efforts in his domain.
In his own message, the Senate President expressed the hope that the new Emir would meet the high expectations of the revered office and justify the trust and confidence that his people have expressed in his character and ability through his selection and appointment.
Lawan who spoke through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Ola Awoniyi, in Abuja described Bamalli’s appointment by the Kaduna State Government as well deserved.
Lawan prayed that the reign of the new Emir would enhance peace and development in Zazzau Emirate and Kaduna State.
Sen. Tinubu in his congratulatory message issued by his Media Aide, Tunde Rahman, urged Bamalli to consolidate on the tremendous gains recorded by predecessor.
He said “As Magajin Garin Zazzau, Ambassador Bamalli distinguished himself as an excellent high chief of the Zazzau Emirate, just as he performed brilliantly well as top diplomat, serving Nigeria as Ambassador to Thailand.
“Like his immediate-past predecessor, Ambassador Bamalli is also a highly detribalised Nigerian and a friend of all.
“He is a prominent diplomat, tested administrator and a first class traditional title-holder.
“As the first Emir from the Mallawa Ruling House in 100 years, the burden of history is on Emir Bamalli.”
The former governor of Lagos state prayed that Bamalli’s reign will bring forth peace, development and prosperity to the Zazzau Emirate, and indeed to Northern Nigeria.
Bamalli, Succeeds late Emir Shehu Idris who died in September after 45 years on the throne.