By Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Saturday paid a courtesy visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, describing the visit as a long-awaited opportunity to personally thank the revered monarch for his unwavering support, prayers, and wise counsel to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Senator Tinubu arrived at the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, where she was received by Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, Deputy Governor Engr. Idris Muhammad Gobir, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, and other top government officials.
She proceeded to the Sultan’s Palace before continuing with other official engagements in the state.
Speaking during the visit, the First Lady said she had always looked forward to meeting the Sultan to express her gratitude for his fatherly guidance and continuous prayers for the success of the current administration.
She recalled that although she visited Sokoto during the 2023 presidential campaign, she was unable to see the Sultan because he was out of the country at the time.
“This visit is long overdue. I came here simply to thank His Eminence for everything he has done since the beginning of this administration. He has consistently supported the government with prayers, wise counsel, and encouragement,” she said.
Senator Tinubu described the Sultan as a symbol of peace, unity, and national cohesion, noting that his leadership has continued to promote harmony and stability across Nigeria.
She also recalled the Sultan’s visit to Ile-Ife during the conferment of a traditional title on her by the Ooni of Ife, describing the gesture as a demonstration of goodwill that inspired her to reciprocate with a visit to Sokoto.
The First Lady further reflected on her first meeting with the Sultan in Dubai during the commissioning of the Burj Khalifa, saying the cordial relationship established then has continued to flourish over the years.
She prayed for Allah to grant the Sultan long life, good health, and wisdom, while also praying for lasting peace, unity, and prosperity in Sokoto State and Nigeria.
Senator Tinubu expressed appreciation to Governor Ahmed Aliyu for the warm reception accorded to her delegation and thanked the women of Sokoto State, members of the Sultanate Council, and the people of the state for their hospitality.
Earlier, Governor Ahmed Aliyu welcomed the First Lady to the Seat of the Caliphate, describing her visit as a great honour and a reflection of the strong relationship between the Presidency and Sokoto State.
He commended her Renewed Hope Initiative, noting that it has positively impacted women, youths, children, and vulnerable groups through economic empowerment, education, healthcare, and humanitarian interventions across the country.
According to the governor, the initiative complements the efforts of governments at all levels in improving the welfare of Nigerians.
Governor Aliyu also paid tribute to the Sultan, describing him as a father figure whose exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to peace, religious harmony, and national unity continue to inspire millions of Nigerians.
Responding, the Sultan warmly welcomed Senator Tinubu, describing Sokoto as her home.
He thanked Almighty Allah for blessing the state with abundant rainfall and favourable weather ahead of the visit, describing it as a sign of divine favour.
The Sultan recalled that he had known both Senator Oluremi Tinubu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for nearly two decades, dating back to the President’s tenure as Governor of Lagos State.
“I welcome you home because Sokoto is your home. We have maintained a cordial relationship over the years—from your days as First Lady of Lagos State, through your service as a Senator, and now as the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the Sultan said.
He commended the First Lady for her humility, dedication to public service, and commitment to improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians through the Renewed Hope Initiative.
The Sultan concluded by praying for Allah’s continued guidance and protection for the First Lady, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the nation, while wishing her a successful stay in Sokoto State.
The visit further strengthened the cordial relationship between the Presidency, the Sokoto State Government, and the Sultanate Council, while reaffirming the important role of traditional institutions in promoting peace, national unity, and sustainable development.
