The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on Nigerians to step up prayers for the nation as the 2027 general elections draw closer, stressing that the country urgently needs leaders of integrity, vision, and God-consciousness to surmount its current challenges.
The monarch made the appeal in his Eid-el-Kabir message on Thursday, highlighting the need for spiritual reflection, national unity, and patriotism as essential ingredients for building a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
As President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, the Sultan urged citizens to continually seek divine guidance in the emergence of credible leaders capable of tackling insecurity, economic hardship, and other pressing national issues.
“Our prayers are always the guiding light toward the choice of our leaders; therefore, we should sustain more prayers in our quest for the best country we desire,” he said.
He further emphasised that Nigeria’s progress depends not only on political campaigns and elections but also on justice, sincerity, competence, and selfless leadership.
The monarch also encouraged Nigerians to embrace the core values of sacrifice, tolerance, obedience, and compassion exemplified by the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, noting that these virtues are vital for peaceful coexistence and national development.
He prayed for lasting peace, unity, and prosperity across the country, expressing hope that future celebrations would take place under improved economic and security conditions.
In a show of recognition for local efforts, the Sultan commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State for his administration’s strides in enhancing security and the welfare of residents, particularly the support provided to pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
He also prayed for the safe return of all Nigerian pilgrims and urged leaders at all levels to prioritise the national interest and citizens’ wellbeing as the country moves closer to the 2027 elections.