President Bola 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, commending his contributions to peace, unity and nation-building.

In a statement personally signed by him on Monday, Tinubu described the Sultan’s seven decades as a testament to a life of service, wisdom and grace.

The President said that, for nearly two decades on the throne of his forebears, Sultan Abubakar had upheld the traditions of the Sokoto Caliphate through scholarship, humility and an unwavering commitment to peace.

Tinubu described the Sultan as a stabilising voice during turbulent times, a bridge-builder across faiths and communities, and a moral compass for Muslims and Nigerians generally.

“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 commended the Sultanate’s efforts in promoting education, interfaith dialogue and humanitarian service, as well as the Sultan’s advocacy for peaceful coexistence, the girl-child and the dignity of every Nigerian.

Tinubu further described Sultan Abubakar as a “towering figure of conscience and counsel”, noting that his palace in Sokoto had become a place for dialogue and reconciliation, while his words carried significant weight across the country.

The President said the Sultan had played important roles during periods of national grief and division by offering comfort, promoting unity and reminding Nigerians of their shared humanity and destiny.

“As President, I deeply value your partnership in nation-building,” Tinubu said, adding that the Sultan’s support for security, community development and the spiritual well-being of Nigerians strengthened the fabric of the country.

The President prayed that Allah would grant Sultan Abubakar many more years in good health, sound mind and continued strength.

He also prayed that the Sultan would remain a source of blessing, guidance and honour to his family, the Sokoto Caliphate and Nigeria.

“Your Eminence, congratulations once again. May this new decade of your life be your most rewarding yet,” Tinubu said.