President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on the occasion of his 20th anniversary on the throne, describing the revered traditional ruler as a symbol of peace, unity and national development.
In a personal tribute released by the State House on Monday, the President praised the Sultan’s leadership over the past two decades, saying his reign has strengthened the legacy of the Sokoto Caliphate while promoting religious harmony and peaceful coexistence across Nigeria.
Addressing the Sultan as “My Dear Leader and Esteemed Brother,” Tinubu said millions of Nigerians and admirers around the world were celebrating the monarch’s remarkable milestone.
“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,” the President said.
Tinubu noted that since ascending the throne 20 years ago, the Sultan has led with humility, courage and a deep sense of responsibility.
“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,” he stated.
The President described the Sultan as a respected moral voice whose leadership has continued to inspire Nigerians across religious and ethnic divides.
“Your uncommon wisdom, your calm in moments of tension, and your unwavering commitment to Nigeria have always struck me. You have been more than a traditional ruler. You have been a moral authority, a bridge between faiths, a voice of moderation, and a steady counsellor to leaders across the country,” Tinubu said.
He also commended the Sultan’s contributions as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, saying he has consistently promoted religious tolerance and mutual understanding.
“Under your leadership as Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, Christians and Muslims have found common ground, and our diversity has become a source of strength rather than division,” the President added.
Tinubu further praised the Sultan’s advocacy for peace in northern Nigeria and the Sahel, as well as his commitment to education, especially for the girl-child, agriculture, public health and humanitarian support for vulnerable Nigerians.
The President also acknowledged the Sultan’s personal support and guidance over the years.
“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,” he said.
Praying for the monarch’s continued good health and long life, Tinubu said: “As you celebrate this historic milestone, I pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) will continue to grant you good health, long life, and renewed wisdom. May your reign continue to bring peace to Sokoto, unity to Nigeria, and honour to the Ummah.”