Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria, has made a significant call for national unity and inclusive governance. During his Sallah homage to Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State, the Sultan emphasized the importance of eliminating the divisive distinction between indigenes and non-indigenes. He lauded Sokoto State’s approach, where all residents are considered members of the community, regardless of their origin, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting peaceful coexistence. This model, the Sultan argued, should be adopted by other states across Nigeria to strengthen national cohesion and eliminate the potential for conflict arising from discriminatory practices. He stressed that such inclusivity is not only morally right but also crucial for the overall stability and progress of the nation.
The Sultan’s address went beyond the issue of inclusivity, touching upon the vital role of state governors in ensuring the security and well-being of their citizens. He acknowledged the efforts of Governor Aliyu in tackling insecurity and banditry in Sokoto State, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the government and traditional institutions. The Sultan commended the governor’s proactive measures, including the distribution of food items during Ramadan, a gesture he described as unprecedented in the state’s history. This, he noted, not only provides immediate relief but also fosters goodwill and strengthens the relationship between the government and the populace. He further urged all Nigerians to be law-abiding and avoid actions that could jeopardize the nation’s peace, particularly cautioning against the misuse of social media for spreading misinformation and inciting unrest.
A critical concern highlighted by the Sultan was the spread of false information and divisive rhetoric on social media. He called for vigilance from security agencies in countering these destabilizing elements. He cautioned against the dangers of online platforms being used to incite violence and spread misinformation, which can quickly escalate tensions and threaten the fragile peace. He implored security agencies to be proactive in identifying and addressing such threats, emphasizing the need for responsible online behavior and the importance of verifying information before sharing it. His message underscores the critical need for media literacy and responsible online engagement in safeguarding national unity.
Governor Aliyu, in his response, echoed the Sultan’s sentiments on security and development. He recognized the connection between unemployment, particularly among youth, and the rise of insecurity. He pointed out that many young people, facing economic hardship, are susceptible to recruitment by criminal groups, serving as informants or even engaging in criminal activities. To combat this, Governor Aliyu outlined his administration’s focus on empowering youth through skills acquisition programs. He highlighted the training and graduation of thousands of youths and women in various trades, equipping them with the necessary skills to become productive members of society. This proactive approach aims to address the root cause of insecurity by providing opportunities for economic independence and reducing the vulnerability of young people to criminal influences.
Expanding on his administration’s efforts to tackle unemployment, Governor Aliyu announced plans to further scale up skills acquisition programs, targeting more unemployed youths and curbing the growing restiveness. This signifies a long-term commitment to human capital development and underscores the governor’s recognition of its pivotal role in achieving sustainable peace and development. He identified youth empowerment as a crucial investment in the future, not just as a means of reducing crime, but also as a catalyst for economic growth and societal progress. This commitment aligns with the broader national agenda of addressing unemployment and promoting self-reliance, particularly among the youth demographic.
Furthermore, Governor Aliyu reiterated his administration’s dedication to supporting Islamic affairs, highlighting plans to provide further support to mosques and Islamiyya schools. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to religious development and education, recognizing their importance in shaping moral values and promoting social harmony. He expressed his gratitude to the people of Sokoto for their continued prayers and support, urging sustained cooperation with his administration. This emphasis on collaboration underscores the importance of a strong partnership between the government and the people in achieving the shared goals of peace, security, and development within the state. His commitment to fostering this relationship underscores the importance of public trust and cooperation in effective governance.
