President Bola Tinubu has congratulated his son Seyi Tinubu on his turbaning as Dan Zaki Gwandu (meaning “Son of the Lion of Gwandu”) by the Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashar (also referred to as Muhammadu Bashar), in Kebbi State.
The ceremony took place on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at the historic Abdullahi Fodiyo Palace in Birnin Kebbi. The Emir described the title as the first of its kind in the history of the Gwandu Emirate. It followed a courtesy visit involving Seyi Tinubu (patron of the City Boy Movement) and a delegation to Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris; the visit also included an empowerment programme that distributed support to more than 2,000 local traders.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu thanked the Emir and the Gwandu Emirate Council. He said the honour reflects bonds of friendship, mutual respect, and unity among Nigeria’s diverse peoples and acknowledged Seyi’s work in youth engagement, community development, and empowerment (including through the City Boy Movement).
Key excerpts from the President’s message include:
- “As a father, I am pleased to see my son recognised by a traditional institution with such a distinguished history. But I also remind him that every honour comes with responsibility.”
- “The title of Dan Zaki Gwandu carries the values of courage, leadership and service. I urge him to live up to those values, remain humble and continue to dedicate himself to the well-being of others.”
- He encouraged Seyi to treat the title as a call to deepen commitment to youth development, peaceful coexistence, and service to Nigeria, and he wished him wisdom and strength.
Some reactions included congratulations from northern youth groups, while others (such as former senator Shehu Sani) commented more critically on the practice of conferring traditional titles on family members of serving officials.
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