Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III during the 2023 Presidential Inauguration Public Lecture at the National Mosque, Abuja. Photo: Muzha Kucha/Radio Nigeria
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, delivered a message unity at the 2023 Presidential inauguration public lecture and Jumu’ah prayer held at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday.
With the focus firmly on Nigeria’s diversity, he expressed his belief that the nation’s strength lies in its rich tapestry of cultures, tribes, and religions, emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation.
He underscored the significance of sustained cooperation within the country, highlighting the fact that Nigeria was stronger and better together as one united nation.
Recognizing the diversity that exists, he urged everyone to embrace the values of peaceful coexistence, by fostering an atmosphere of tolerance and understanding,
Nigeria can harness its diversity as a source of strength and propel itself toward greater heights, he said.
As the nation prepared for the incoming administration, the Sultan called upon Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable and ensure that they fulfill the expectations of the people. Stressing the need for the new government to hit the ground running, he urged them to prioritize the well-being and progress of the nation.
Summons at the 2023 Presidential inauguration public lecture 
(L) Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Saad with VP Elect Kashim Shettima at the 2023 Presidential inauguration public lecture 
SGF, Boss Mustapha at the2023 Presidential inauguration public lecture 
Guests at the 2023 Presidential inauguration public lecture 
Guests at the 2023 Presidential inauguration public lecture 
Guests at the 2023 Presidential inauguration public lecture 
Guests at the 2023 Presidential inauguration public lecture 
Guests at the 2023 Presidential inauguration public lecture
Representing President Muhammadu Buhari, Mr. Boss Mustafa, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the Presidential Transition Committee, stressed the importance of educating the youth about the value of peaceful coexistence.
He called on religious leaders to actively engage with the younger generation, instilling in them the principles of unity and tolerance, to reshape attitudes and foster.
The Vice President-elect, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, expressed his administration’s dedication to hitting the ground running, unleashing the country’s full potential.
He acknowledged the readiness of Nigeria to capitalize on its diverse heritage, recognizing that true development can only be achieved through unity.
Professor Bashir Galadanci, the Guest Lecturer at the event, presented a paper titled “Unity in Diversity: Evolving a Better Nigeria.”
In his address, he emphasized the crucial role of unity in Nigeria’s development.
Galadanci asserted that by embracing and harnessing its diverse identities, the nation can unlock its true potential.
The 2023 Presidential inauguration lecture was attended by senior government officials, politicians, traditional and religious leaders, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Reporting by Ibrahim Shehu; Editing by Annabel Nwachukwu