Guwor to Traditional Rulers: Partner with Government to Secure Nigeria

— As Sultan Marks 20th Coronation Anniversary

The Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has congratulated His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, CFR, mni, the Sultan of Sokoto, on his 20th Coronation Anniversary on the throne of the Sokoto Caliphate.

Rt. Hon. Guwor, in a congratulatory message on behalf of the 36 State Houses of Assembly, described the Sultan's 20-year reign, which began on November 2, 2006, as a reign of peace, wisdom, humility and enduring service to the nation.

According to the Chairman in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nkem Nwaeke, His Eminence, as the 20th Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has elevated the Sultanate into a formidable moral authority for national cohesion, religious tolerance, inter-faith dialogue and good governance.

He noted that for two decades, the Sultan has remained a voice of reason, a symbol of moderation and a steady counsellor to governments at all levels.

"We celebrate an icon whose leadership has transcended religion and region. His Eminence has deployed the influence of the throne to promote education, peace-building, youth development and mutual respect among Nigerians of diverse backgrounds," Guwor said.

While celebrating the historic milestone, the Chairman stressed the need for constant and structured collaboration between traditional institutions and government to maintain peace and security, particularly at the grassroots.

"As Speakers of State Legislatures, we firmly believe that lasting peace and security cannot be achieved by government alone. There is an urgent need for constant engagement and collaboration with traditional institutions, who are closest to the people and custodians of our communities," the Conference Chairman stated.

Rt. Hon. Guwor further called on traditional rulers across Nigeria to continue to support and collaborate with government at all levels in maintaining peace and security in their domains.

He stressed that their partnership is critical to intelligence gathering, conflict prevention, communal harmony and grassroots stability.

Guwor further noted that such collaboration has become even more imperative as the nation prepares for the 2027 general elections, a period that requires restraint, dialogue and collective responsibility.

"As we move towards the 2027 elections, we must work together for a greater, more united and more secure Nigeria. The elections must be seen as an opportunity to deepen democracy, not to divide us. Dialogue over confrontation and unity over division are principles we must all uphold," he added.

The Conference Chairman prayed Almighty Allah to grant His Eminence long life, sound health and continued divine wisdom to lead the Ummah and to continue to serve as a father to all.