Sultan receives former Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby in Sokoto
By KEMI KASUMU
The visit also carried a significant historical dimension, given Dr. Welby’s long-standing relationship with the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, CFR, mni, has received the former Archbishop of Canterbury and former head of the worldwide Anglican Communion, Dr. Justin Welby, at the Sultan’s Palace in Sokoto.
Welby paid a formal courtesy visit to the Sultan on Saturday, September 26, 2026, during which they discussed issues of common interest, with particular emphasis on peace, religious understanding, unity and cooperation among people of different faiths.
The visit also carried a significant historical dimension, given Dr. Welby’s long-standing relationship with the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
During Buhari’s era, the Presidency repeatedly described Welby as a close friend of the former Nigerian leader. In 2017, Welby paid a personal visit to Buhari in London while the former President was receiving medical treatment, with Buhari thanking him for having “always stood by him at critical times.”
The relationship between the two men was also reflected in several high-level meetings. Buhari received Welby in London in 2017 and 2018, while Welby hosted Buhari at Lambeth Palace in London in 2016. Their engagements included discussions on interfaith harmony, peace and Nigeria’s security challenges.
At the Sultan’s Palace, Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar welcomed the former Archbishop and expressed appreciation for his visit, stressing the importance of sustained dialogue and mutual respect among religious leaders in promoting peaceful coexistence and strengthening communities.
Dr. Welby also expressed appreciation to the Sultan for receiving him and for providing an opportunity to engage in dialogue on issues affecting society and the wider religious community.
The meeting further highlighted the continuing role of Muslim and Christian leaders in fostering interfaith dialogue, peace, understanding and national unity.
The Sultan was accompanied during the visit by the Emir of Argungu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Samaila Muhammadu Mera, CON, the Galadiman Garin Sokoto, Alhaji Aliyu Attahiru Galadanci, the Sokoto State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Professor Mansur Sa’id, Sokoto State Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Isah Muhammad Maishanu, Deputy Secretary General, World Zakat and Waqf, Engr. Lawal Maidoki, and other distinguished personalities.
