President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on the 20th anniversary of his ascension to the throne, praising his contributions to religious harmony, national unity and peacebuilding in Nigeria.
In a congratulatory message dated November 2, 2026, President Tinubu described the Sultan’s two decades on the throne as a period marked by wisdom, courage, humility and dedication to national development.
The President joined millions of Nigerians and friends of the revered monarch across the world in celebrating the historic milestone, acknowledging his role in preserving and strengthening the heritage of the Sokoto Caliphate.
According to Tinubu, the Sultan has not only upheld the legacy of his forebears but has also transformed the traditional institution into an important platform for promoting peace, unity and national development.
Tinubu Praises Sultan’s Role in Promoting National Unity
The President described Sultan Abubakar as more than a traditional ruler, noting that his influence extends beyond the Sultanate to religious, social and national affairs.
He commended the monarch’s wisdom, calm disposition during moments of national tension and consistent commitment to Nigeria’s unity.
Tinubu further described the Sultan as a moral authority, a bridge-builder across religious divides and a trusted counsellor whose contributions have continued to support national cohesion.
He particularly acknowledged the monarch’s leadership as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC).
According to the President, the Sultan has consistently promoted religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, providing platforms for Christians and Muslims to find common ground despite their religious differences.
President Highlights Sultan’s Contributions to Education and Humanitarian Development
Tinubu also commended the Sultan’s advocacy for peace in Northern Nigeria and across the Sahel, as well as his contributions to education, particularly the education of the girl-child.
He acknowledged the monarch’s support for farmers, public health initiatives and interventions aimed at assisting poor and vulnerable Nigerians.
The President noted that these contributions reflect a people-centred approach to traditional leadership and demonstrate the importance of religious and traditional institutions in addressing the country’s development challenges.
He also expressed appreciation for the Sultan’s personal support, prayers and counsel, describing their relationship as one he deeply values.
Tinubu said the monarch’s advice had consistently reflected patriotism and a commitment to Nigeria’s best interests.
Tinubu Prays for Long Life and Continued Success of Sultan’s Reign
As the Sultan of Sokoto marks 20 years on the throne, President Tinubu prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) would continue to grant him good health, long life and renewed wisdom.
He also expressed hope that the monarch’s reign would continue to promote peace in Sokoto State, strengthen national unity and bring honour to the Muslim Ummah.
“Congratulations, Your Eminence,” the President concluded.
The congratulatory message was signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at the State House, Abuja, on November 2, 2026.
Sultan of Sokoto Marks Two Decades on the Throne
The 20th anniversary of Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III’s ascension to the throne marks an important milestone for the Sultanate of Sokoto.
Since becoming the 20th Sultan of Sokoto, the monarch has continued to serve as a prominent traditional and Islamic leader, with his responsibilities extending to religious leadership and interfaith engagement across Nigeria.
President Tinubu’s tribute adds to the messages of goodwill from political leaders and traditional institutions celebrating the Sultan’s two decades of service.
The anniversary also highlights the continuing relevance of traditional and religious institutions in promoting dialogue, peaceful coexistence and national development in Nigeria.
