A frontline monarch in Nigeria, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji (Dr.) Yahaya Abubakar is set to confer the traditional title of 1st Tabariki Nupe on the Senator representing Kwara Central in the National Assembly, Saliu Mustapha.

A delegation from the Bida Emirate Council conveyed the decision during a formal presentation of a Letter of Credence to the Senator in his office in Abuja.

The delegation was led by Barje Nupe and the Chairman of the Bida Emirate Traditional Turbaning Committee, Alhaji Kassim N. Yawa and the Wakilin Labarai Nupe, who serves as the committee’s secretary, Alhaji Isah Isah Muhammad.

According to the delegation from the Bide Emirate Council, the title Tabariki is derived from the Arabic word Tabarakah, meaning abundance and infinite blessings, and is interpreted to signify the “Blessed Son of the Nupe Emirate.”

Reacting to the development, Senator Mustapha appreciated the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers for the honour, describing it as both humbling and deeply symbolic.

Mustapha, who is also the Turaki of Ilorin, noted that the recognition reflects the longstanding historical and cultural ties between the Bida Emirate and the Ilorin Emirate, which continue to reinforce a shared heritage and enduring brotherhood.

The lawmaker who chairs the Committee on Agriculture, Production Services and Rural Development added that the honour serves as a reminder that contributions to humanity do not go unnoticed, stating that it would further inspire him to remain committed to public service and societal development.

Mustapha also expressed gratitude to the Etsu Nupe and the Bida Emirate Council for the recognition, pledging to uphold the dignity of the title and continue to serve humanity with dedication and integrity.

The official date for the conferment ceremony is expected to be announced by the Emirate Council.