President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on his 70th birthday, describing him as a stabilising force and respected voice for peace, unity and national cohesion.
Tinubu, in a birthday message on Monday, praised the Sultan’s nearly two decades of leadership, saying his 70 years had been marked by service, wisdom and grace.
The President said the Sultan had upheld the traditions of the Sokoto Caliphate through scholarship, humility and a sustained commitment to peaceful coexistence.
“Your seventy years are a testament to a life lived in service, wisdom, and grace,” Tinubu said.
He described the Sultan as a bridge-builder across religious and community lines and a moral authority whose influence extends beyond the Muslim community.
According to the President, the Sultan has remained “a stabilising voice in times of turbulence” and “a bridge-builder across faiths and communities.”
Tinubu said the Sultan’s leadership had contributed to the promotion of education, interfaith dialogue and humanitarian service, while highlighting his advocacy for peaceful coexistence, the girl-child and the dignity of Nigerians.
The President also praised the Sultan for what he described as his ability to provide guidance during difficult periods.
“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.
He said the Sultan’s palace in Sokoto had become a centre for dialogue and his counsel carried significant weight across the country.
“In moments of grief, you comfort. In moments of division, you unite. In moments of doubt, you remind us of our common humanity and our common destiny as one people under God,” the President said.
Tinubu also acknowledged the Sultan’s contribution to national development, particularly in security, community development and the spiritual wellbeing of Nigerians.
“As President, I deeply value your partnership in nation-building,” he said, adding that the Sultan’s contributions “strengthen the fabric of our republic.”
The President said Nigeria needed more of the wisdom and counsel the Sultan had consistently offered, while commending his efforts to promote unity and peaceful coexistence.
Tinubu extended the birthday greetings on behalf of himself, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the Federal Government and Nigerians.
He prayed for the Sultan to enjoy many more years in good health and strength.
“May He preserve you for your family, for the Sokoto Caliphate, and for Nigeria,” Tinubu said.
He further prayed that the Sultan’s reign would continue to be “a source of blessing, guidance, and honour,” describing the 70th birthday as a significant milestone.
“May this new decade of your life be your most rewarding yet,” the President added.
