Nigerian Leaders Honor Sultan of Sokoto's 20th Anniversary

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other Nigerian officials honored Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III on November 2, 2026, marking the 20th anniversary of his ascension to the throne. In a message issued by the State House, Tinubu praised the Sultan as a moral authority and a voice of moderation who has promoted religious tolerance and national unity through his roles in the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council.

Tinubu specifically commended the Sultan's advocacy for public health, peace in the Sahel region, and education for the girl-child. The Sultan first became the 20th Sultan of Sokoto on November 2, 2006, following the death of Sultan Muhammadu Maccido.

On November 3, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State attended the anniversary celebrations and the 13th Shaikh Usmanu Bin Fodiyo Week in Sokoto. The event, themed around reviving ethical leadership and social harmony, brought together leaders to discuss the legacy of the Sokoto Caliphate. Governor Lawal described the Sultan as a beacon of stability during security challenges. In response, Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III thanked his supporters and urged community and traditional leaders to intensify their efforts in promoting peace.