Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to strengthen the place of traditional rulers and restore the prestige of the institution across the state.Speaking at the South East Traditional Rulers Conference held on Friday in Abakaliki, Nwifuru described royal fathers as the heartbeat of their communities whose dignity must be preserved for society to thrive.He explained that upon assuming office, he made a solemn commitment to God and the people to restore confidence in the institution of traditional leadership.“Our royal fathers remain central to my administration’s agenda because a crown that is neglected cannot command respect either locally or nationally.“That is why we are deliberately investing in befitting palaces, recognising that the palace of a king is not just his residence but a home for all.“Several of such palaces have been completed and inaugurated, while others are at advanced stages of construction,” he said.The governor also highlighted the creation of new autonomous communities and increased stipends for traditional rulers as part of measures to reposition the institution.He urged participants at the conference to use the platform to provide lasting solutions to pressing challenges in the South East.The Chairman of the South East Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Emmanuel Okeke, said the gathering was timely, enabling monarchs to map out strategies to better serve as custodians of culture and heritage.He emphasized that ensuring the safety of lives and property was a shared responsibility and commended state governments in the zone for policies geared towards security, infrastructure, and empowerment.Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Uchenna Igwe, also outlined ongoing state programmes designed to enhance the relevance and welfare of traditional rulers.He encouraged royal fathers to make far-reaching recommendations that would boost grassroots development and sustain public trust in the institution.The conference drew the participation of several prominent monarchs from the region, including the Obi of Onitsha, Alfred Achebe, and other traditional leaders from across the South East.