A member of the House of Representatives, Jafar Yakubu Chiroma, has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on his 20th anniversary as the traditional ruler of the Sokoto Caliphate, commending his contributions to national unity, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

Chiroma, who represents Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency of Taraba State, described the monarch’s two decades on the throne as a period marked by efforts to strengthen interfaith relations, promote national cohesion and preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

The lawmaker conveyed his message in a congratulatory statement released on Monday through his aide, Usman Sarsa, to commemorate the anniversary.

The Sultan ascended the throne on November 2, 2006, following the death of his predecessor, Sultan Muhammadu Maccido, who died alongside his son, Senator Badamasi Maccido, in the ADC Airlines Flight 53 crash on October 29, 2006.

Before becoming the 20th Sultan of Sokoto, Abubakar served in the Nigerian Army, where he attained the rank of Brigadier-General. His military career also included participation in peacekeeping operations in Chad and Sierra Leone, as well as an appointment as Nigeria’s Defence Attaché to Pakistan.

Since assuming the traditional leadership position, the monarch has remained actively involved in efforts to promote religious understanding and peaceful relations among Nigerians.

Through his leadership of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and Jama’atu Nasril Islam, he has consistently advocated religious tolerance and dialogue. He has also worked with Christian leaders through the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council to strengthen cooperation between religious communities.

Beyond religious affairs, the Sultan has supported public health initiatives, particularly polio eradication and routine immunisation campaigns, by mobilising traditional and religious institutions to encourage public participation.

In his congratulatory message, Chiroma acknowledged the Sultan’s leadership and contributions to the Muslim community and the country, describing the anniversary as an opportunity to recognise his commitment to peace and national development.

The lawmaker also offered prayers for the monarch’s continued good health, long life and wisdom, expressing hope that his reign would continue to bring peace, progress and prosperity to the Sokoto Caliphate and Nigeria.