President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged his son, Seyi Tinubu, to justify his newly conferred traditional title of Dan Zaki Gwandu through humility, courage, leadership, and dedicated service to humanity. ​The advice was contained in an official statement released on Wednesday evening, November 11, 2026, by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. ​
Seyi Tinubu was formally turbaned earlier on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at the historic Abdullahi Fodiyo Palace in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State. The title, which translates to “Son of the Lion of Gwandu” was bestowed upon him by the Emir of Gwandu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashar.
​Speaking during the conferment ceremony at the palace, the Emir described the title as historic, noting that it was the first of its kind in the history of the Gwandu Emirate. The monarch highlighted that the honour was conferred in recognition of Seyi Tinubu’s commitment to youth development, empowerment, and national progress, as well as his father’s achievements as president. ​
Reacting to the conferment, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the Emir and the Gwandu Emirate Council for extending the honour to his family, emphasizing that traditional titles represent significant responsibilities rather than mere personal recognition. ​”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,” President Tinubu stated. ​The President further reiterated the vital role of traditional institutions as custodians of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, social cohesion, and national unity.
​In his response at the palace, Seyi Tinubu expressed appreciation to the Emir and the people of Kebbi State, describing the title as a call to deepen his service to Kebbi State and Nigeria as a whole. The ceremony also saw Seyi Tinubu, through his youth engagement initiatives and the City Boy Movement, empowering over 2,000 local traders in the state.
