The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fostering religious tolerance and unity across Nigeria, stating that the nation’s economic and social stability are tied to such inclusive policies.
The Sultan made this known on Saturday during the commissioning of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Darul’Ilm Centre for Islamic Studies in the Dan Bushiya community, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The centre was constructed and donated by the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi.
A Christian Builds an Islamic School: A Legacy of Unity
Describing the gesture as a “legacy project,” the Sultan applauded Ajayi—a Christian—for spearheading the establishment of a fully equipped Islamic school for orphans and indigent children. He said the project exemplifies selfless leadership and is a shining example of interfaith cooperation.
“This is not just a school; it is a beacon of hope and a testament to our shared humanity. A Christian building a school for Muslim orphans is a powerful message that religious harmony is possible and necessary in Nigeria,” the Sultan said.
He emphasized that overcoming religious and ethnic divisions is essential for national development and called on citizens to emulate Ajayi’s example.
“The ability of successful nations to bridge their internal divides has always been central to their progress. Nigeria must follow this path,” he added.
Tinubu’s Inclusive Leadership Recognized
The Sultan also commended President Tinubu for his inclusive approach to governance, noting that appointments like that of Ajayi as DSS Director-General have helped to foster collaboration across religious and ethnic lines.
“I doubt there is any country in the world where Muslims and Christians interact more peacefully than in Nigeria,” he said. “Let us not let religion become a tool of hate. We must reject bigotry and embrace unity.”
He urged leaders across the country to promote education and interfaith dialogue, calling on wealthy individuals to invest in similar projects.
Ajayi’s Vision Rooted in Security and Social Stability
Speaking on behalf of DSS Director-General Ajayi, retired DSS Director Alhaji Ahmed Zalmar revealed that the idea for the Islamic centre was born out of Ajayi’s service years in Kaduna. He explained that Ajayi views education as a strategic tool in addressing internal security threats such as subversion and terrorism.
“By reducing public discontent through education, we build a more secure society,” Zalmar stated. “This centre is not funded by government operational budgets but through CSR contributions and partnerships. It’s part of a broader policy to improve internal security through non-conventional means.”
Ajayi’s ongoing projects also include places of worship and sports facilities aimed at uplifting vulnerable communities and countering extremist influences.
Dignitaries and National Endorsement
The event drew prominent figures, including Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly Hon. Dahiru Liman (representing House of Representatives Speaker Hon. Tajudeen Abbas), NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Audi, Emir of Zazzau Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, and several former DSS directors.
The centre was officially named after President Tinubu in recognition of his commitment to education and national development.
The Sultan concluded with a hopeful message: “Despite our challenges, Nigeria remains a great nation. With collective efforts like this, we can overcome any obstacle.”
