Abuja, Nigeria
August 24, 2026
The Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI) warmly celebrates His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni (SEC 28, 2006), the Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of the AANI Heritage Council, on the occasion of his 70th birthday anniversary.
In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of AANI, Dr. Babade Bamidele Amos, mni, the President of the Association, Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor, mni, on behalf of the National Executive Committee and the entire AANI family, described the Sultan as “a quintessential and unassuming royal leader, distinguished statesman, patriot, and a symbol of wisdom, peace, unity, and service to humanity.”
AANI noted that His Eminence occupies a distinguished place within the National Institute family, having participated in the prestigious Senior Executive Course 28 in 2006, and has continued to exemplify the values of strategic leadership, national service, and responsible citizenship.
The Association further acknowledged the Sultan’s distinguished military career in the Nigerian Army, where he served in various strategic capacities and rose to the rank of Brigadier General before ascending the throne of the Sokoto Caliphate in 2006.
Since his ascension as the 20th Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence has provided remarkable leadership as a revered traditional and religious authority, while championing peace, national unity, interfaith dialogue, religious tolerance, and harmonious coexistence among Nigerians.
As the spiritual leader of Nigeria’s Muslim community and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), the Sultan has consistently deployed his influence and wisdom in promoting peaceful coexistence, national cohesion, and the collective advancement of the country.
“AANI celebrates His Eminence not only as a revered royal father and religious leader, but also as a distinguished alumnus, elder statesman, bridge-builder, patriot, and an embodiment of humility and service whose contributions continue to inspire generations,” the statement added.
The Association described the Sultan’s 70 years of life and service as a remarkable testament to leadership, sacrifice, wisdom, integrity, and commitment to the peace and progress of Nigeria.
AANI prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) will continue to grant His Eminence excellent health, greater wisdom, strength, peace, divine protection, and many more years of purposeful and impactful service to humanity and the nation.
Yours Towards a Better Society,
Engr. Ifeanyi Jude Ngama, mni
National Publicity Secretary,
AANI