Sultan of Sokoto

By Uzair Adam

The Sultan of Sokoto and Co-Chair of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), HRH Abubakar Sa’ad III, on Wednesday warned that the Council risks losing relevance unless religious leaders embrace sincerity, accountability and genuine engagement.

His remarks came as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) renewed calls for stronger government action on insecurity, while the Federal Government dismissed global claims of religious persecution in the country.

These exchanges took place at NIREC’s Second Tri-Annual Meeting in Abuja, where the Sultan, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, delivered some of their most direct assessments of Nigeria’s security challenges and interfaith relations.

Speaking candidly, the Sultan said NIREC had drifted from its founding vision, stressing the need to confront internal contradictions that undermine its credibility.

He lamented that some religious leaders preach unity during meetings but make divisive statements outside, a pattern he said weakens interfaith harmony.

“We sit down and say good things to one another, knowing God owns everything. Yet when we leave this room, we begin to say negative things. Are we really honest with ourselves?” he asked.

He urged the Council to decide whether to continue with its current approach, undergo reforms, or return fully to its founding principles. He also commended Cardinal John Onaiyekan for his consistency and sincerity since NIREC’s early days.

The Sultan noted that many members fail to communicate NIREC’s resolutions to their communities, leaving the public unaware of decisions that could reduce tension.

He emphasised that dialogue—rather than force—remains the surest path to peace.

Turning to security, CAN President Archbishop Okoh warned that Nigeria faces a dangerous phase of violence marked by mass abductions, banditry and extremist attacks.

“The daily loss of innocent lives is alarming and heartbreaking. Communities are being deserted and citizens are fearful,” he said.

While acknowledging existing government efforts, he urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen responses proportionate to the scale of the crisis. He also stressed that faith institutions remain vital to peacebuilding due to their grassroots influence.

He insisted that justice must underpin peace: “Those who perpetrate or finance violence must be held accountable, and victims must be supported.”

In his remarks, SGF Senator George Akume rejected global claims that Nigeria is experiencing religious genocide, arguing that such narratives misrepresent the country’s complex security issues. He noted that both Christian and Muslim communities have suffered devastating attacks.

He announced plans for a US–Nigeria Joint Working Group on Security, where religious leaders will contribute to policy discussions.Akume urged delegates to speak frankly and work in unity, saying: “Let us collectively silence the merchants of hatred and disunity.”

The meeting ended with a consensus that Nigeria’s fragile peace requires renewed honesty, deeper collaboration and a united moral front between religious leaders and the government.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has officially declared Thursday, October 23, 2025, as the first day of the new Islamic month of Jumadal Ula, 1447 After Hijrah.

The announcement was made in a press release on Tuesday following the failure to sight the new crescent moon.

The Sultanate Council’s Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs and the National Moonsighting Committee stated that no verified reports of the moon’s sighting were received from across Nigeria on Tuesday, October 21st, which corresponded to the 29th of Rabi’ul Assani.

Consequently, Wednesday, October 22nd, will complete the outgoing month as the 30th day of Rabi’ul Assani.

As the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Sultan Abubakar accepted the committee’s report and made the declaration, marking the beginning of the new lunar month for the Muslim community in Nigeria.

The statement was signed by Prof. Sambe Wali Junaidu, the Waziri of Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs.

By Uzair Adam

His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity across Nigeria.

He also reiterated that traditional rulers are more troubled by the spate of killings than most politicians.

Speaking during the 7th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council held Tuesday in Maiduguri, the Sultan emphasized the collective resolve of traditional rulers to address security challenges through dialogue and collaboration.

“We are over 86 traditional rulers in the North, and we have come together to say enough is enough of the senseless killing of innocent people. We have made countless condemnations, but how many times must we speak out before real change happens?” he said.

He emphasized the need for sincerity and unity among political leaders, traditional institutions, and the citizenry to tackle insecurity effectively.

“Our role is not to compete with state governors but to support them. We feel the pain when our people are killed, and we are committed to advising our leaders and working together to bring an end to these attacks,” he added.

Addressing speculations on renewed Boko Haram activity, the Sultan prayed for divine strength to overcome the insurgency and urged the public to avoid ethnic or religious profiling in attributing criminal acts.

The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, represented by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, opened the meeting, which had the theme “Enhanced Security As Panacea For Stability and Development of the North.”

Governor Zulum advocated for youth empowerment, warning that a lack of opportunities creates a fertile ground for radicalisation.

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by AIG Kenechikwu Onwuemelie, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to working with traditional leaders to ensure safety in the region.

Meanwhile, Governor Zulum raised fresh alarms over the resurgence of Boko Haram in parts of Borno State, warning that recent attacks and the loss of military positions could reverse hard-won gains.

The Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al Amin El-Kanemi, also lamented that three local government areas remain under insurgent control, blaming infiltration by individuals posing as Islamic students or traders.

Despite assurances from the federal government, including Information Minister Mohammed Idris, that security agencies are working tirelessly, the recent wave of attacks has raised fears of renewed instability in the region.

A timeline of recent killings shows disturbing trends: from the April 14 massacre in Plateau State where over 40 people were killed, to the April 12 IED blast along Maiduguri–Damboa highway, and other violent incidents in Katsina, Borno, and beyond—underscoring the urgent need for coordinated action to halt the violence.

By Uzair Adam

The Sultanate Council of Sokoto has declared Friday, February 28, 2025, as the commencement of the search for the new Moon of Ramadan 1446AH.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu.

The Daily Reality reports that the council urged Muslims across the country to observe the sky for the new Crescent on Friday and report any sighting to their nearest District or Village Head.

The reports will then be forwarded to the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for an official announcement.

The statement also provided contact numbers for reporting confirmed sightings to the Sultanate Council:

– 08037157100

– 08066303077

– 08035965322

– 08099945903

– Murtala Isah (Pharm) – 07067146900

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs announced yesterday that the crescent moon marking the beginning of Sha’aban 1446AH was not spotted anywhere in Nigeria.

This declaration, made in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee, holds great significance for Muslims as Sha’aban precedes Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam.

According to Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee, “no credible reports of moon sighting were received from any part of Nigeria.”

Consequently, Thursday, January 30, 2025, will be observed as the 30th day of Rajab 1446AH as his Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto, has accepted the report and officially declared Friday, January 31, 2025, as the first day of Sha’aban 1446AH.

As stated, “The announcement is significant for the Muslim community, as Sha’aban is the month preceding Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam. The declaration ensures uniformity in the Islamic calendar, guiding religious observances across Nigeria.”

The Sultanate Council urged Muslims to adhere to official announcements regarding Islamic dates and prepare spiritually for Ramadan.

By Anwar Usman

A meeting between the Northern Governors Forum and Northern Traditional Rulers Council is currently underway in Kaduna. The two groups hope to tackle the region’s pressing security and developmental challenges.

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, was in attendance at the meeting, which took place at the state government House.

While welcoming his colleagues, Muhammadu Yahaya, Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, called for collective action to tackle the challenges bedevilling the region.

The region is battling insecurity, economic hardship, environmental degradation, and youth restiveness.

Yahaya reiterated the need for collective action. He said, “Our collective resolve is being tested by the ongoing challenges that we face. However, our unity and commitment to the prosperity of the people remain our greatest source of strength that will enable us to overcome those challenges.”

The governor also acknowledged these challenges. He said, “Terrorism, banditry, kidnap-for-ransom, farmer-herder clashes, drug abuse, the menace of Almajiri and out-of-school children, poverty, and unemployment. We must continue to work with the Federal Government and relevant agencies to provide the necessary support and relief to those affected.”

The governors proposed various ways to tackle these challenges, including “sustaining gains against criminals, studying and implementing the Coalition of Northern Group’s Security Committee report, and engaging with security agencies and civil society groups.

“Investing in education, skills development, and job creation; supporting small and medium enterprises; attracting investment to northern states; providing support to farmers, ensuring rural security, and promoting agro-allied industries.

“Partnering with the Federal Government and stakeholders to build irrigation infrastructure and promote sustainable practices.”

In his remarks earlier, Kaduna Governor and chief host, Senator Uba Sani, welcomed his colleagues and traditional rulers in the region and the Chief of Defence, General Christopher Musa, emphasising unity and collective action against regional challenges.

Sani also acknowledged the northern Governors’ commitment to peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity, urging, “We must work together to realize our vision of a secure, peaceful, and prosperous North.”

The Governor commended President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to combat insecurity, citing the establishment of a Joint Military Command and Operation Fansan Yamma as clear demonstrations of the Federal Government’s commitment.

By Uzair Adam

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has reiterated the need for full implementation of the research and recommendations provided by the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (AANI) to address the nation’s challenges.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by AANI National President, Ambassador Emmanuel Okafor, at his palace in Sokoto on Saturday, the Sultan highlighted the valuable insights AANI members have contributed over the years.

“No problem in Nigeria has not been carefully examined by AANI, with comprehensive solutions proposed,” Abubakar said, expressing his confidence in the ability of AANI’s research to improve governance and strengthen the relationship between leaders and citizens.

He also acknowledged the association’s role in contributing to policy-making and its dedication to supporting the government in creating policies that foster national development.

Ambassador Okafor, while commending the Sultan’s role in the association, stated the need for all levels of government to tap into AANI’s wealth of expertise to build a better society.

He also praised the involvement of traditional leaders in governance due to their strong ties to the grassroots.

As the Sokoto State chapter of AANI held its Annual General Meeting, newly elected Chairman Alhaji Shehu Ladan pledged to strengthen the association’s visibility and partnerships.

The outgoing Chairman, Dr. Abubakar Mohammad, reaffirmed AANI’s commitment to advancing beneficial policies for the country.

The new leadership team includes Vice Chairperson Aisha Hassan, Secretary General Aisha Dantsoho, Financial Secretary Bello Wamakko, and other key officers.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu

Our traditional institutions are institutions built on the historical culture, norms, values, and religious beliefs of the said community, often led by an Emir, an Igwe, an Oba, and so on. Like almost all societies, Nigeria had witnessed times when traditional rulers effectively agitated the activities of their various communities, particularly prior to the arrival of colonial masters.

Although they have no formal power, our traditional institutions are well equipped and standard, allowing the colonial masters to wield effective indirect power, particularly in northern Nigeria, and to a lesser extent in the west, and ineffective in the east. This is because our traditional institutions are solid and effective.

Our Institutions suffered a significant decline, particularly after independence, as political office holders were elevated far above our traditional rulers — who mingle, co-exist, and know the needs of the community and the solutions to its enormous problems in most cases better than elective politicians.

The importance of these institutions cannot be overstated because they play a vital role in mediating and resolving minor conflicts, enhancing mutual identity, and serving as guardians of culture and tradition, among other things. Their opinions and commandments are held in high regard and respected by members of their various communities, as they are considered sacred in some communities.

They also promote peace, unity, cohesion, and harmonious relations as one of the government’s goals, especially among their various communities, which leads to rapid development. According to Joseph I. Igwubor, ‘traditional rulers are bridge builders that the government can use to cement existing relationships between different ethnic groups in Nigeria.’

The main factor pushing back our traditional institutions is the lack of clear roles for these institutions in the 1999 constitution, since also after the 1979 constitution failed to provide precise functions.

These institutions play essential roles in maintaining peace, security, and the rule of law in the country and also in achieving development goals, which is why they must be revived because they are closer to the people.

The government should enact legislation that will give these institutions constitutional recognition and support. This will allow them to discharge their obligations effectively. The government should also collaborate with these institutions on policy implementation. When they issue a resolution, the government should critically evaluate it and consider whether it is feasible to implement it in our contemporary society.

They must also be encouraged to help secure their respective domains. As grassroots leaders who are closer to the people, they may have some knowledge of community-related security issues, which, if handled with utmost importance and secrecy, will undoubtedly help reduce the threat of insecurity that plagues our country, as both government and traditional institutions will manage security-related issues.

Finally, when these institutions are revived and carried out constitutionally, they significantly impact issues of development in their various communities and security. As grassroots leaders, people hold them in high regard. Their followers regard them as cultural and traditional guardians, and their words are considered, respected, and held in high esteem. Therefore, these institutions are in an excellent position to provide lasting solutions to the problems that would set our country back if they were removed.

Usman Muhammad Salihu writes from the Mass Communication department, Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi, Bauchi state. He can be reached via muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi A. Lamido

The renowned Muslim human rights activist and Director of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Prof. Ishaq Lakin Akintola, has called for exempting the Sultan of Sokoto from the “Deposition Clause” in the Nigerian laws.

Speaking as the keynote presenter at the formal opening ceremony of the 15th Anniversary of the 20th Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR mni, Akintola noted that Sultan Sa’ad as the head of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) means well for Nigeria and his council has the potentials of solving several problems that Nigerian Muslims are bedevilling with.

“By the nature and composite of the NSCIA, anyone who occupies the position of governor in Sokoto State has the power to depose the Sultan. Unfortunately, the removal of the Sultan has the bandwagon effect of removing the President General of the NSCIA. This is because, Section 6 Cap 26 of the Laws of Northern Nigeria empowers state governors to depose the Emirs and this includes the Sultan”, he said.

Akintola stressed that in addition, Article 7 of the NSCIA constitution stipulates that the Sultan of Sokoto shall be the President General of the NSCIA. “Here lays the dilemma facing the Ummah. The governor of a single state can depose the Sultan and leader of all Nigerian Muslims. This situation is capable of causing unmitigated embarrassment. It also has the capacity to trigger a religious crisis of unimaginable dimension”.

He pointed to the fact that: “Whereas even the president of Nigeria cannot interfere in the affairs of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), [but unfortunately] a state governor can interfere and even depose the Sultan and President General of the NSCIA. This has far reaching comparative disadvantage vis-a-vis the bargaining power as well as pressure group influence of Christians and Muslims in Nigeria.”

The solution to this dilemma according to Akintola is to secure immunity from deposing the Sultan. “The onus is therefore on the Sokoto State House of Assembly to set the machinery in motion for the repeal of Section 6 Cap 26 of the Laws of Northern Nigeria in such a way that it will exclude the Sultan from the governor’s exercise of the power of deposition. It is a simple exercise which may not go beyond a motion in the House seeking to insert the phrase ‘except the Sultan of Sokoto’ in the dethronement clause.”

He reiterated that this is not about the present Sultan but about the progress of the Ummah and the freedom from undue executive influence.

Commenting after the speech, the Chairman of the Occasion, His Highness, the Emir of Argungu Alhaji Samaila Muhammadu Mera, stressed that this matter raised by Akintola is a serious one and Nigerian Muslims should give it utmost attention. The Sultan is the leader of the Muslims not of Sokoto. He is not the Sultan of Sokoto State but of the Sokoto Caliphate. As the leader of the entire Nigerian Muslims, the office of the Sultan deserves special provision in a manner that safeguards the overall interest of Muslim leadership.

Muhammadu Sunusi (II) was the recent emir in Northern Nigeria to be deposed by the Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje by alleging that the deposed emir interfered into the state’s political matters that almost caused him to lose his second election in 2019.