Nigeria’s Challenges Are Surmountable, Says Sultan of Sokoto.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammed Abubakar III, has expressed optimism about Nigeria’s ability to overcome its current challenges, provided that citizens unite in their efforts. Speaking at the inauguration of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Darul’Ilm Centre for Islamic Studies in Kaduna, the Sultan emphasized that Nigeria is not alone in facing difficult times and that collaboration among its people can lead to overcoming these obstacles.
Hope Through Unity
The Sultan highlighted the resilience of Nigerians and encouraged continuous interaction among citizens to minimize religious and ethnic differences. “The coming together of people of different faiths and ethnicities will help bridge the gaps of disunity and de-emphasize the problems of this country,” he said. Stressing the importance of prayer, he urged Nigerians to pray for their leaders at all levels of government.
A Special Educational Initiative
The newly inaugurated educational center, built and donated by Tosin Ajayi, Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), is dedicated to orphans and the underprivileged in the Danbushiya community. The Sultan praised the initiative, noting its significance in fostering unity and support for vulnerable groups. He also recommended naming the school after President Bola Tinubu, acknowledging the president’s role in facilitating Ajayi’s appointment as DG of the DSS.
Strategic Philanthropy
Represented by Ahmed Zalmar, a retired director of the service, Ajayi shared his vision of using education as a tool to reduce public discontent and enhance national security. He stated that his philanthropic efforts, including the building of schools and other social projects, are funded through corporate social responsibilities and stakeholder support, without dipping into operational funds.
Government Support for Education
Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance, underscored the importance of education for Nigeria’s future. He praised President Tinubu’s support for educational initiatives and highlighted the progress being made in economic growth, foreign reserves, and stabilizing inflation rates. Edun emphasized the strategic importance of education as Nigeria prepares to contribute significantly to the global workforce by 2050.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Hadiza Balarabe, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna; Dahiru Liman, Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly; and Ahmed Audi, Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Bamalli, and several serving and past DSS directors were also present, demonstrating widespread support for the initiative.
The Sultan’s message of hope and unity, coupled with strategic educational initiatives, offers a promising path forward for Nigeria amid its challenges.