Sultan’s 20-Year Reign Has Advanced Peace, Unity, National Development – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, for his contributions to peace, religious harmony, national unity and development as he marks 20 years on the throne.

Tinubu, in a congratulatory message personally signed by him on Monday, described the Sultan as a moral authority, a bridge between faiths and a steady counsellor to leaders across the country.

The President said the Sultan had, in the two decades since his ascension to the throne, not only preserved the heritage of the Sokoto Caliphate but also enriched it and made it an instrument for peace, unity and national development.

He noted that the monarch’s wisdom, calmness during moments of tension and commitment to Nigeria had distinguished his reign.

Tinubu also commended the Sultan’s leadership as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), saying he had consistently promoted religious harmony and tolerance.

According to the President, the Sultan’s role as Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council has helped Christians and Muslims find common ground, making Nigeria’s diversity a source of strength rather than division.

He further highlighted the monarch’s advocacy for peace in northern Nigeria and across the Sahel, as well as his commitment to education, particularly for the girl-child.

The President also acknowledged the Sultan’s support for farmers, public health initiatives and interventions aimed at assisting poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

Tinubu described his relationship with the Sultan as one he deeply valued, noting that the monarch’s counsel had always been honest, patriotic and guided by Nigeria’s best interests.

“Thank you for your support and your prayers for our nation,” the President said.

While congratulating the Sultan on the milestone, Tinubu prayed that Almighty Allah would grant him good health, long life and renewed wisdom to continue serving the country and the Muslim Ummah.

He expressed hope that the Sultan’s reign would continue to bring peace to Sokoto, unity to Nigeria and honour to the Ummah.

The Sultan ascended the throne in 2006 and is the 20th Sultan of Sokoto.