President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto, 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 peaceful coexistence.
In a congratulatory message issued on Monday, November 2, 2026, the President described the Sultan as a respected traditional ruler, a bridge between faiths, a voice of moderation and a trusted adviser to leaders across the country.
Tinubu said the monarch’s two decades of leadership had helped preserve and strengthen the heritage of the Sokoto Caliphate while promoting peace and national development.
He particularly commended the Sultan’s role as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, noting his efforts to encourage dialogue and understanding between Christians and Muslims.
The President also acknowledged the Sultan’s advocacy for peace in Northern Nigeria and the Sahel, as well as his support for girl-child education, agriculture, public health and vulnerable communities.
Reflecting on their relationship, Tinubu described his friendship with the monarch as valuable, saying he had benefited from his honest counsel and commitment to Nigeria’s interests.
The Sultan ascended the throne on November 2, 2006, becoming the 20th Sultan of Sokoto following the death of his predecessor, Sultan Muhammadu Maccido.
Tinubu concluded his message with prayers for the Sultan’s continued good health, wisdom and long life, expressing hope that his reign would continue to promote peace in Sokoto and unity across Nigeria.
