Remi Tinubu pays homage to Sultan, hails role in national unity

Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, made a significant courtesy visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, describing him as a crucial pillar of national unity. The visit, her first official homage to the spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims since the current administration took office, emphasized the strong ties between the presidency and the nation's traditional institutions.

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This visit is one I have looked forward to for a long time. I came to sincerely appreciate His Eminence for his unwavering prayers, wise counsel, and encouragement towards this administration. His support has remained constant from the very beginning.

Arriving at Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, the First Lady received a warm reception before proceeding to the palace. She explained that the visit was long overdue and intended to personally convey her gratitude for the Sultan's consistent prayers, fatherly guidance, and unwavering support for the Federal Government. She recalled a previous visit to Sokoto during the 2023 presidential campaign, where circumstances prevented a meeting with the Sultan, making Saturday's engagement particularly fulfilling.

Senator Tinubu lauded the Sultan as an outstanding statesman and a respected symbol of peace, religious harmony, and national cohesion. She noted his leadership has fostered unity across Nigeria's diverse communities. The First Lady also reminisced about the Sultan's presence at the conferment of a traditional title upon her by the Ooni of Ife, viewing it as a demonstration of mutual respect that strengthened their relationship. Their connection dates back to a meeting in Dubai during the commissioning of the Burj Khalifa, and she expressed satisfaction that their relationship has continued to flourish.

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She also fondly recalled the Sultan’s presence in Ile-Ife during the conferment of a traditional title on her by the Ooni of Ife, describing the monarch’s gesture as a remarkable demonstration of mutual respect that further strengthened the cordial relationship between them.

During the visit, Senator Tinubu prayed for the Sultan's long life, good health, wisdom, and continued strength in serving humanity. She also prayed for enduring peace, stability, and prosperity for Sokoto State and Nigeria. The First Lady concluded by thanking Governor Aliyu, the Sultanate Council, and the people of Sokoto for their warm hospitality.

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She equally reminisced about their first meeting in Dubai during the commissioning of the Burj Khalifa, noting that their longstanding relationship has continued to flourish over the years.