By Tunde Omolehin
The Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, has said the peace-building efforts and counsel of the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar have continued to support the Federal Government’s efforts in tackling insecurity across the country.
Matawalle stated this in a tribute issued in Sokoto on Monday to mark the Sultan’s 70th birthday in a statement made available to journalists on Monday.
The minister described the monarch’s seven decades of life as “seven decades of wisdom, humility, and service to humanity,” saying he had remained a father to all and a custodian of Nigeria’s moral and spiritual values.
“Today we thank Allah for the gift of your life as you mark 70 glorious years. Your Eminence has been a beacon of peace and unity not just in Sokoto, but across Nigeria and the Muslim world,” Matawalle said.
He said the Sultan’s reign had been characterised by efforts to strengthen bonds of faith, promote interfaith harmony and give voice to vulnerable members of society amid the country’s complex challenges.
According to him, the Sultan’s interventions in national security, education and humanitarian affairs had continued to inspire leaders and communities across Nigeria and beyond.
“Your commitment to justice and to peaceful coexistence continues to inspire leaders and communities far beyond our borders,” the minister added.
Matawalle however highlighted the Sultan’s advocacy for peace and dialogue, saying it had provided important moral support for government’s efforts to address insecurity, especially in the North-West and other troubled parts of the country.
He said the Sultan had remained a stabilising force at a time when national unity was urgently needed, adding that his counsel to both government and citizens had helped to reduce tension and encourage dialogue.
“In times when the nation needs unity the most, His Eminence has stood firm as a stabilising force. His counsel to government and to the people has helped to douse tension and promote dialogue,” Matawalle said.
The minister prayed for the Sultan’s continued good health, long life and divine guidance as he leads the Muslim community.
“May your reign continue to be one of peace, progress, and blessings for the Ummah. We are truly blessed to have you,” he said.
Matawalle urged Nigerians to emulate the Sultan’s virtues of tolerance, humility and service, stressing that such values remained important to the pursuit of peace and national cohesion.
