By Obaike Odihue
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid tribute to His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on the 20th anniversary of his ascension to the throne.
In a message on Monday, Tinubu said the Sultan ascended the throne 20 years ago with humility, courage and a profound sense of duty.
“Twenty years ago, you ascended the throne with humility, courage, and a profound sense of duty. In the two decades since, you have not only preserved the glorious heritage of the Sokoto Caliphate; you have enriched it, redefined it, and made it a formidable instrument for peace, unity, and national development,” the President said.
Tinubu described the Sultan as more than a traditional ruler, but a moral authority, a bridge between faiths and a steady counsellor to leaders.
“Your uncommon wisdom, your calm in moments of tension, and your unwavering commitment to Nigeria have always struck me,” he said.
As President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, Tinubu said the Sultan has consistently promoted religious harmony, tolerance and unity.
He commended the Sultan’s advocacy for peace in the North and across the Sahel, his passion for education, especially for the girl-child, and his support for farmers, public health and the vulnerable.
“Personally, I value our friendship deeply. Your counsel has been honest, patriotic, and always in Nigeria’s best interest,” Tinubu said.
The President prayed that Almighty Allah grants the Sultan good health, long life and renewed wisdom and that his reign continues to bring peace to Sokoto, unity to Nigeria and honour to the Ummah.
