News Investigators/ President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, on his 20th anniversary on the throne, commending his humility, courage and contributions to national unity.
Tinubu described the Sultan as a moral authority, a bridge between faiths and a steady counsellor to leaders across the country.
The president conveyed his congratulations in a statement personally issued on Monday to mark the Sultan’s two decades on the throne.
“My Dear Leader and Esteemed Brother, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.
“Today, I join millions of your subjects and friends in Nigeria and abroad to celebrate you as you mark 20 years on the exalted throne of your forebears as the 20th Sultan of Sokoto.”
Tinubu said the Sultan ascended the throne with humility, courage and a profound sense of duty, adding that he had enriched the heritage of the Sokoto Caliphate.
“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,” he said.
The president commended the Sultan’s wisdom, calmness during moments of tension and unwavering commitment to Nigeria.
He said the Sultan had served as a moral authority, a bridge between faiths, a voice of moderation and a steady counsellor to leaders across the country.
Tinubu also acknowledged the Sultan’s contributions as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council.
He said the Sultan had consistently promoted religious harmony and tolerance, helping Christians and Muslims find common ground.
The president also lauded the Sultan’s advocacy for peace in Northern Nigeria and the Sahel, as well as his commitment to education, particularly for the girl-child.
He further acknowledged the Sultan’s support for farmers, public health initiatives and interventions for poor and vulnerable Nigerians.
“Personally, I value our friendship deeply. Your counsel has been honest, patriotic, and always in Nigeria’s best interest.
“Thank you for your support and your prayers for our nation,” Tinubu said.
The president prayed Almighty Allah to grant the Sultan good health, long life and renewed wisdom.
“May your reign continue to bring peace to Sokoto, unity to Nigeria, and honour to the Ummah,” he said.
NAN