Bago Celebrates Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, at 70
ISSN: 2354-4481
By Onochie Michael
Location: Minna, Niger State
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on the occasion of his 70th birthday.
Governor Bago, in a goodwill message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, on Sunday, August 23, 2026, described the Sultan as a humble, selfless and exemplary leader whose influence extends beyond the Muslim community.
The governor commended Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar for his efforts toward promoting religious harmony and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse religious communities.
According to Bago, the Sultan’s leadership of the Muslim Ummah has contributed significantly to the promotion of unity, understanding and stability in the country.
He also acknowledged the Sultan’s contributions to national development, describing his service to the country as invaluable.
“Seventy years is a milestone in life,” the governor said while expressing gratitude to Allah for preserving the life of the traditional and religious leader.
Bago prayed for continued good health, wisdom and strength for the Sultan as he carries on with his responsibilities and contributes to national development.
The governor’s message comes as Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar marks his 70th birthday on August 24, 2026. The Sultan was born in Sokoto on August 24, 1956, and became the 20th Sultan of Sokoto in November 2006 following the death of his predecessor, Sultan Muhammadu Maccido.
Before ascending the throne, Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar had a distinguished military career. He joined the Nigerian Army after graduating from the Nigerian Defence Academy and served in various capacities, including international and peacekeeping assignments. He retired from the Army as a brigadier general in 2006 before becoming Sultan later that year.
As Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the NSCIA, he has played a prominent role in religious affairs and interfaith engagement in Nigeria. His leadership has also been associated with efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and dialogue between religious communities.
Bago said the Sultan’s ability to coordinate the Muslim Ummah while encouraging peaceful relations with adherents of other faiths remained worthy of commendation.
The Niger governor further prayed that the Sultan would be granted more years of fruitful service and the wisdom required to continue providing leadership at a critical period in the nation’s development.
The goodwill message reflects the recognition accorded Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar by political, religious and traditional stakeholders across the country as he reaches the milestone age of 70.
