A "chieftain" refers to a leader or ruler of a group or tribe. They usually hold a position of authority and make decisions on behalf of their people. Full definition
Buhari said this during a dinner he hosted in honour of chieftains of the All Progressives Congress at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. (punchng.com)
Tinubu allegedly made the comments when he received a segment of APC chieftains from the South West who paid him a solidarity visit late on Monday. (dailypost.ng)
Others include members of the Federal Executive Council, presidential media team, lawmakers and party chieftains of the ruling APC. (nigeriapoliticsonline.com)