Tinubu to Sultan at 70: You’re a Bridge-Builder Across Faiths

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

Tinubu described the Sultan as a stabilising voice, a bridge-builder across faiths and communities, and a moral compass whose leadership has contributed to peace, unity and national cohesion.

The President conveyed the commendation in a statement personally signed by him on Monday to mark the Sultan’s milestone birthday.

Tinubu said the Sultan’s seven decades of life had been defined by service, wisdom and commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.

“Your seventy years are a testament to a life lived in service, wisdom, and grace,” Tinubu said, noting that Sultan Abubakar had spent nearly two decades on the throne of his forebears.

He commended the monarch for embodying the traditions of the Sokoto Caliphate, particularly scholarship, humility and commitment to peace.

According to Tinubu, Sultan Abubakar has remained a stabilising figure during periods of national turbulence and has promoted dialogue across religious and community divides.

“You have been 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 said.

Tinubu also praised the Sultan’s advocacy for education, interfaith dialogue, humanitarian service, peaceful coexistence and the dignity of every Nigerian.

He described the Sultan’s palace in Sokoto as a centre for dialogue and said his counsel had carried significant weight across the country.

“At 70, you remain a towering figure of conscience and counsel,” Tinubu said.

The President further expressed appreciation for the Sultan’s partnership with his administration in nation-building, particularly in the areas of security, community development and the spiritual wellbeing of Nigerians.

Tinubu prayed for the Sultan to enjoy many more years in good health and strength, while asking Allah to preserve him for his family, the Sokoto Caliphate and Nigeria.

“May your reign continue to be a source of blessing, guidance, and honour,” he said.