The Co-Chair of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairas (NSCIA) and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar lll has reiterated his belief in the unity and indivisibility of Nigeria, declaring that no force will break the nation’s bond of togetherness.
He said this at the National Executive Committee meeting of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) held in Lagos with the theme, “The Traditional Institution: The Imperative of its Inclusion in the Effective and Efficient Governance in Nigeria.”
The Sultan appealed to Nigerians to be steadfast, patriotic and prayerful in the face of Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges, maintaining that unity remains the foundation for progress and peace.
“Nothing will break us until we get freedom,” the Sultan declared, adding that “despite any trials — whether outside or within our country — we will remain united as one people. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we have no other country but this one.”
He counseled Nigerians to continue believing in the promise of the nation and to support leaders with prayers in their efforts to address the issues confronting the country, just as he called for mutual love, understanding, and cooperation among citizens, noting that only collective effort can sustain peace and national stability.
He acknowledged the prevailing hard times and told Nigerians not to lose faith but to confront adversity with courage and unity of purpose.
The Sultan urged all leaders to be sincere and moral integrity, reminding them that leadership is a divine trust for which they will be held accountable.
He challenged all Nigerians to rise up to confront the challenge, as he described the country as a “beautiful and blessed nation,” which, despite external pressures and internal differences, continues to survive because of the determination of its people.
The Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi reminded the governors that monarchs are not competing with them but “we are here to complement you,” urging them not to relegate them as being subservient to the Local Government Chairmen.
He said royal fathers would continue to put Nigeria forward, and urged the political leaders to nurture the traditional institution very well.
