It is a fact that societies and nations are, to a large extent, shaped by the ability or otherwise of their leaders. It is on this premise I suggest that it will be a worthy exercise to pause and reflect back as his Eminence, Alh. (Dr) Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, clocks 10 years on his ascension to the throne. Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar, who is the 20th Sultan of Sokoto succeeded his late brother Muhammadu Maccido, who died in a ADC Airline crash on November 1, 2006. Today, Sultan Mohammed Sa’ad Abubakar 111 is among the world’s most respected and influential Muslim leaders. Since his coronation as the Sultan of Sokoto not only Sokoto Caliphate but the whole country has felt his impact. Sultan Sa’ad’s leadership qualities have shone brightly and it renders the picture of a leader who believes in action and making a difference. This has been practical in many ways. The Sokoto Sultanate itself is being modernized, several changes have been made in terms of personnel, procedures and facilities which have made the structure more effective and relevant to the people. In this regard, some new titles have been introduced, with some long shelved ones revived and energetic persons appointed. In this way, the Sultan demonstrated his capability to put in place effective structures to assess various sections in the society, which is important in promoting peace and unity in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation like Nigeria state. A peace loving leader and a bridge builder, Sultan Sa’ad has consistently worked for peace, unity and development of Nigeria. This is an effective strategy and it goes to show his vision and sterling leadership qualities. Another attribute of the Sultan that has sparkled in the last 10 years is the quality advised and fatherly role he has played. The royal father has repeatedly made it clear that every leader at whatever level will account for his or her actions whether still on earth or in the hereafter. The royal father practices what he preaches, as well as leads the way by living an exemplary life marked with the honesty, humbleness, concern and action to make life better for his subjects. Just as Sultan Sa’ad gives importance to loyalty, he puts it in to practical application. This is why he has always asked his subjects to be peaceful, loyal and participate in government policies and programmes.

The Sultan has a reputation of acting practically to bring succour to those in need. His philanthropy knows no bound. An instance of this, include his special assistance to Internally Displayed Persons (IDPS). He also comes to the rescue of many Nongovernmental organizations, Students Unions and Muslims groups in the country with Vehicles and cash to enhance their community development service.

The Sultan held sensitive positions during his Military career. He was Commanding Officer 231 Tank Battalion ECOMOG operation in Sierra Leone from 1999 to 2000. He also served as a military attache to Pakistan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan. Upon the death of his elder brother, Sultan Maccido, he was recalled to take office as the 20th Sultan of Sokoto, and retired as a Brigadier General in the Nigerian Army.
The last ten years have been very eventful under His Eminence Sultan Mohammed Sa’ad Abubakar. We wish him more of such successful years ahead in good health, steadfastness and wisdom.
Sa’ad Aliyu, Yola, Adamawa State.