Alara of Ilara Celebrates Sultan of Sokoto at 70, Commends His Leadership and Commitment to National Unity

Lagostrend report that the Alara of Ilara Kingdom in Epe Division of Lagos State, HRM Oba Dr. Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, Telade IV, has congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, mni, on the occasion of his 70th birthday.

Oba Ogunsanwo, in a birthday tribute issued on behalf of his family, the people of Ilara Kingdom and the Alara-in-Council, described the Sultan’s seven decades of life as a remarkable journey marked by service, wisdom, dignity, patriotism, peace and commitment to national unity.

The Lagos monarch praised Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar for exemplifying the core values of traditional leadership, religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible nation-building.

According to Oba Ogunsanwo, the Sultan’s influence extends beyond the traditional and religious institutions he represents, noting that his wise counsel, statesmanship and consistent advocacy for peaceful relations among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious communities have earned him widespread respect.

“Your Eminence’s seven decades of purposeful existence have been characterised by distinguished leadership and an enduring devotion to the welfare of humanity.

“As the revered Sultan of Sokoto, you have continued to exemplify the noble values of traditional leadership, religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible nation-building.

“Your wise counsel, statesmanship and consistent advocacy for peaceful relations among Nigeria’s diverse peoples and faith communities have earned you profound respect far beyond the traditional and religious institutions you represent.”

Oba Ogunsanwo, who also serves as the South-West Coordinator of the National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria (NTRCN) and Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, said the Sultan’s leadership has remained an inspiration to Nigerians.

He particularly commended the Sultan’s efforts to promote dialogue, mutual understanding and unity at a time when peaceful coexistence remains essential to Nigeria’s progress.

“Your leadership has remained a source of inspiration to many, particularly in your efforts to promote dialogue, understanding and unity in our beloved Nation,” the monarch said.

May Allah Grant You Sound Health and Long Life’

Addressing the Sultan directly, Oba Ogunsanwo prayed for divine blessings, good health and renewed strength as the monarch marks the milestone birthday.

“As you attain this remarkable milestone of 70 years, may Almighty Allah continue to grant Your Eminence sound health, abundant wisdom, renewed strength and long life, while blessing your family, household and the Sultanate with peace, prosperity and divine protection,” he said.

The Alara of Ilara further prayed that the years ahead would provide the Sultan with greater opportunities to contribute to the peace, stability and development of Nigeria and humanity.

He wished the Sultan a happy 70th birthday, while praying for a long, peaceful and impactful reign.

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Oba Ogunsanwo also called for continued prayers for the preservation, wisdom, honour and continued wellbeing of the Sultan, describing his 70th birthday as a significant milestone worthy of celebration and gratitude to Almighty Allah.

He conveyed his “warmest felicitations and highest regards” to Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar on the occasion and joined the Sultan’s family, the Muslim Ummah and Nigerians across the country in celebrating his seven decades of life and service.

The tribute further underscores the enduring role of traditional and religious leaders in promoting peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and national unity across Nigeria’s diverse communities.