Alara of Ilara Celebrates Sultan of Sokoto at 70, Hails Commitment to Peace and Unity
By KEMI KASUMU
The DEFENDER reports that Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, who is also the South West Coordinator for the National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria, noted that the Sultan’s leadership had remained an inspiration to many, particularly through his efforts to promote dialogue, mutual understanding and unity in Nigeria.
The Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Epe Division, 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 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 70 years as a remarkable life dedicated to service, wisdom, dignity, patriotism, peace and national unity.
The traditional ruler praised the Sultan for exemplifying the values of traditional leadership, religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible nation-building.
According to him, the Sultan’s wise counsel, statesmanship and consistent advocacy for peaceful relations among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious communities have earned him widespread respect beyond the traditional and religious institutions he represents.
“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,” the Alara.
The DEFENDER reports that Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, who is also the South West Coordinator for the National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria, noted that the Sultan’s leadership had remained an inspiration to many, particularly through his efforts to promote dialogue, mutual understanding and unity in Nigeria.
“Your leadership has remained a source of inspiration to many, particularly in your efforts to promote dialogue, understanding and unity in our beloved Nation,” he said.
Addressing the Sultan, the Lagos Monarch who is also the Chancellor of Lagos State University Ojo,v said, “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.”
The Alara 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 and prayed for a long, peaceful and impactful reign.
Oba Ogunsanwo, who is also Coordinator for the Southwest of the National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria (NTRCN) and Chancellor of Lagos State University, urged continued prayers for the Sultan’s preservation, wisdom and honour.
He conveyed his “warmest felicitations and highest regards” to the Sultan on the milestone celebration.
