Tinubu Celebrates Sultan Of Sokoto At 20th Anniversary On Throne

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on the 20th anniversary of his ascension to the throne, commending his contributions to religious harmony, national unity and development.

Tinubu, in a congratulatory message issued by the State House on November 2, described the Sultan as a moral authority, a bridge between religious communities and a trusted adviser whose leadership has contributed to peace and stability in Nigeria.

The President said the Sultan’s two decades on the throne had been marked by efforts to preserve and strengthen the heritage of the Sokoto Caliphate while promoting peace, unity and national development.

According to Tinubu, the traditional ruler has demonstrated uncommon wisdom, courage and commitment to Nigeria, particularly in moments of national tension.

He noted that beyond his responsibilities as the Sultan, Abubakar had played significant roles in promoting interfaith understanding and religious tolerance.

Tinubu particularly acknowledged his leadership as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), saying his interventions had helped foster common ground between Christians and Muslims.

The President also highlighted the Sultan’s advocacy for peace in northern Nigeria and the Sahel region, as well as his commitment to education, particularly opportunities for the girl-child.

He further commended the monarch’s support for farmers, public health initiatives and interventions aimed at improving the welfare of poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

Reflecting on their relationship, Tinubu described his friendship with the Sultan as valuable, noting that the monarch’s counsel had consistently been honest and guided by the country’s national interest.

He also appreciated the Sultan’s support and prayers for Nigeria, expressing confidence in his continued contributions to national cohesion.

The President prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, good health, long life and wisdom for the Sultan, expressing hope that his reign would continue to bring peace to Sokoto, unity to Nigeria and honour to the Muslim Ummah.

Abubakar became the 20th Sultan of Sokoto in 2006, succeeding his predecessor, Sultan Maccido.

Tinubu described the anniversary as a historic milestone and wished the monarch continued success on the throne.