The Sultan of Sokoko, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged state governors across Nigeria to adopt the inclusive governance model championed by Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State, which eliminates the distinction between indigenes and non-indigenes.
The Sultan made this appeal during his Sallah homage to Governor Aliyu at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Lodge in Sokoto on Tuesday.
He emphasised that in Sokoto, all Nigerians are regarded as indigenes, creating a sense of belonging among all residents.
“In Sokoto, we do not categorize people as non-indigenes; we recognize them as part of our communities,” the Sultan said.
The Sultan urged other states to adopt this model, fostering peace, unity, and national cohesion.
He also highlighted the critical role of state governors in ensuring the safety and security of their people, stressing that security is foundational to societal progress.
“We commend Governor Aliyu’s efforts in Sokoto, and the traditional institution will continue to support his initiatives to transform the state. Together with security agencies, he has made significant strides in improving security and combating banditry,” the Sultan remarked.
He also lauded Governor Aliyu for his extensive distribution of food items during the recent Ramadan fast, calling it an unprecedented act in Sokoto’s history.
Additionally, the Sultan urged Nigerians to remain law-abiding and avoid actions that could threaten national peace.
He expressed concern over the misuse of social media by individuals spreading false information and inciting unrest.
The Sultan called on security agencies to remain vigilant against those attempting to destabilise the country through misinformation and divisive rhetoric.
In response, Governor Ahmed Aliyu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Sokoto residents.
He identified youth unemployment as a key factor driving insecurity nationwide, with many young people turning to criminal groups for financial support.
“This administration has trained and graduated thousands of youths and women in various trades, empowering them to become productive members of society,” Governor Aliyu stated.
He further announced plans to expand the skills acquisition programme to engage more unemployed youths and reduce restiveness.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting Islamic affairs, announcing that additional mosques and Islamiyya schools would receive government backing.
He expressed gratitude to the people of Sokoto for their continued prayers and support, urging them to maintain their cooperation with his administration.