By Hadi Sani (Ph.D. in View), Ogun State
Nigeria, a nation blessed with a rich cultural heritage, religious diversity, and over 250 ethnic groups and over 500 languages.
Among the voices that have continued to echo the call for cohesion and national harmony, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto, stands out as a beacon of peace, moderation, and unwavering commitment to national unity.
As the Amirul Mu’minin (Commander of the Faithful) in Nigeria and the President of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), the Sultan has played an extraordinary role in fostering interfaith dialogue, promoting peaceful coexistence, and stabilizing ethno-religious relations across the country.
In Northern Nigeria, where issues such as the alarming rate of out-of-school children, banditry, kidnapping, and religious extremism continue to destabilize communities, the Sultan has not only raised his voice but also taken meaningful actions.
His efforts in convening stakeholders, engaging government institutions, and calling upon international development agencies reflect a rare and admirable blend of traditional leadership and modern advocacy.
What distinguishes His Eminence is his strategic use of influence not to divide or dominate, but to unite and uplift. He brings wisdom, calm, and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s plural nature to the national discourse.
He serves as a bridge not only among diverse ethnic groups and religious communities but also between the grassroots and the corridors of power.
His advocacy for peace, education, and national development is not just commendable, it is exceptional. At a time when divisive rhetoric often overshadows the spirit of togetherness, the Sultan remains a constant reminder of our shared destiny as Nigerians.
The Sultan of Sokoto is more than a traditional ruler, he is indeed, an institution, a national treasure, and a true symbol of unity for our dear country.
Hadi Sani (Ph.D in View)
Senior Special Assistant to Ogun State Governor on Inter Ethnic Affairs.
