Tinubu Celebrates Sultan of Sokoto at 70, Hails Him as Stabilising Voice and Bridge-Builder

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on his 70th birthday.

In a statement issued on Monday, August 24, 2026, President Tinubu described the Sultan’s seven decades of life as a milestone marked by service, wisdom and dedication to peace.

Tinubu praised the Sultan’s nearly two decades on the throne, saying he has upheld the traditions of the Sokoto Caliphate through scholarship, humility and a strong commitment to peace.

The President described the Sultan as a “stabilising voice” during periods of national turbulence and a bridge-builder across religious and community divides. He also commended his contributions to education, interfaith dialogue, humanitarian service and peaceful coexistence.

According to Tinubu, the Sultan’s influence extends beyond the Muslim community, with his leadership contributing to national unity and dialogue across Nigeria’s diverse communities.

The President also highlighted the Sultan’s contributions to security, community development and the spiritual well-being of Nigerians, describing his partnership in nation-building as valuable to the country.

Tinubu prayed for the Sultan to enjoy many more years in good health and strength, while wishing him a rewarding new decade of life.

The Sultan of Sokoto, who also serves as President-General of the NSCIA, has been widely recognised for his advocacy for peace, religious harmony and national cohesion.

The 70th birthday celebration has also attracted congratulatory messages from organisations and groups across Nigeria, reflecting the Sultan’s prominent role in the country’s religious and traditional leadership landscape.