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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on his 70th birthday, describing him as a stabilising voice and moral compass for Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Monday, President Tinubu said the Sultan’s seven decades of life had been marked by service, wisdom and grace, noting that he had upheld the traditions of the Sokoto Caliphate since ascending the throne nearly two decades ago.
The President said Sultan Abubakar had distinguished himself through scholarship, humility and an unwavering commitment to peace, while serving as a bridge-builder across religious and community divides.
“Today, I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating a remarkable milestone for a remarkable person: His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, on his 70th birthday,” Tinubu said.
He congratulated the Sultan and his subjects in Sokoto and beyond on behalf of himself, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the government and people of Nigeria.
Tinubu said the Sultan had become “a stabilising voice in times of turbulence, a bridge-builder across faiths and communities, and a moral compass not only for our Muslim ummah, but for our entire nation.”
The President also commended the Sultan’s advocacy for education, interfaith dialogue, humanitarian service, peaceful coexistence, the girl-child and the dignity of every Nigerian.
“I have come to know you as a leader who speaks truth with compassion, who counsels patience without weakness, and who champions unity without compromising conviction,” Tinubu said.
According to him, the Sultan’s palace in Sokoto had become “a sanctuary for dialogue,” while his interventions during moments of national grief, division and uncertainty had continued to reinforce the values of unity and shared humanity.
Tinubu said he deeply valued the Sultan’s partnership in nation-building, particularly his contributions to security, community development and the spiritual well-being of Nigerians.
“As President, I deeply value your partnership in nation-building. Your security support, community development, and the spiritual well-being of our people strengthen the fabric of our republic. Nigeria needs more of the wisdom you so generously offer,” he said.
The President prayed for the Sultan to enjoy many more years in good health, sound mind and continued strength, saying his leadership remained important to his family, the Sokoto Caliphate and the nation.
“May your reign continue to be a source of blessing, guidance, and honour,” Tinubu said.
He wished the Sultan a rewarding new decade of life and congratulated him once again on the milestone birthday.
