FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19 AND THE ROLE OF TRADITIONAL RULERS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

Abstract

Purpose: The paper examined fight against COVID-19 and the role of traditional rulers in Northern Nigeria. Methodology: This paper was qualitative in nature because it was based on organized review of related literature and a subtle examination of secondary data. Document analysis was done guided by the study objective. Data for the study was generated from documentary sources while analysis will be affected through content analysis Findings: The results found out that the traditional leaders in their domains will utilize mobilization machinery at their disposal such as town announcement, announcement during prayers and meetings as well community-based informants, to create awareness and strengthen community surveillance for COVID-19 disease and in the effective distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE) and relief palliatives  Unique Contribution to Theory and Practice: The central concern of this paper was to examine the major roles of traditional rulers in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic disease in Northern Nigeria. However, it is the contention of this paper that efficient and effective fight against the pandemic disease would continue to be a mirage if due recognition is not given to the traditional authorities as a critical stakeholder in the health architecture of the region under discourse and Nigeria in general.