The Northern Senators Forum (NSF) has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, on his 70th birthday.
The Chairman of the forum, Sen. Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, conveyed the congratulatory message in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.
Yar’Adua described the Sultan’s 70th birthday as a milestone and celebration of a life dedicated to service, sacrifice, leadership and the unity of Nigeria.
“On behalf of the NSF, we warmly felicitate His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs,” he said.
The senator said the Sultan’s attainment of the rank of Brigadier-General in the Nigerian Army, through service in peacekeeping operations, military command, presidential security and diplomatic assignments, reflected his courage, discipline and commitment to duty.
According to him, the Sultan was prepared for greater responsibility when he emerged as the 20th Sultan of Sokoto in 2006, providing traditional and spiritual leadership to millions of Nigerians.
Yar’Adua said the Sultan had, over the past two decades, distinguished himself as a voice for peace, tolerance, interfaith dialogue and national cohesion.
“His consistent engagement with leaders across religious and ethnic divides, advocacy for peaceful coexistence and commitment to the unity of Nigeria have earned him immense respect at home and abroad.
“At a time when our country needs voices of wisdom, moderation and reconciliation, his leadership remains particularly invaluable,” he said.
Yar’Adua said the forum joined millions of Nigerians in thanking Almighty Allah for granting the Sultan 70 years of service and impact.
“We pray that Almighty Allah continues to grant him sound health, wisdom, strength and many more years of purposeful service to the Sultanate, the Muslim Ummah, the North and Nigeria.
“Happy 70th birthday, Your Eminence. May your years ahead be filled with greater accomplishments, peace and divine blessings,” he said.
