The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has hailed the governance qualities of Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris in the areas of structural development, respect for traditional institutions, and social engagement.
The Sultan made the remarks during the maiden Malam Abdullahi Fodio Annual Lecture, instituted by the state university.
Abdullahi Fodio, a scholar, reformer, and jurist, was the younger brother of Shehu Usmanu Dan Fodio.
Abubakar, who chaired the event, said governor Idris has a unique and unified approach to politics, and urged other governors, especially those of Sokoto and Zamfara, to emulate him.
He praised the presence of three former Kebbi state governors at the event, describing it as a remarkable display of unity beyond politics.
The Sultan also appreciated the presence of traditional rulers and other Nigerians from across the country, saying it highlighted Nigeria’s diversity and unity, and was a reflection of the love, tolerance, and mutual respect among Nigerians, regardless of culture, tribe, or religion.
Abubakar beseeched Nigerians to pray for their leaders and offer constructive advice instead of abusing them. He also urged the leaders to uphold justice, and serve with the fear of God as they must account for their actions before the Creator.
“Leadership is about doing the right thing for the good of the people you lead,” he added.
In his speech, Kebbi State Governor Comrade Nasir Idris, renamed the university after Abdullahi Fodio, and explained that it was to further preserve the legacy of the prominent scholar, who contributed significantly to education and societal development.
“This renaming is expected to inspire students and the academic community to emulate the virtues of scholarship and moral excellence embodied by Sheikh Abdullahi Fodio.
“This is the highest that we have for our late scholar, Mallam Abdullahi Fodio, and the Kebbi State Government will, Insha Allahu, do the needful to ensure that the necessary process is done in this direction and also to ensure that the name has come to stay, ” the Governor added.
