Sultan seeks compassion as NASFAT marks 30th anniversary
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has advised leaders to prioritise justice and compassion in addressing the country’s challenges. He spoke on Wednesday at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, during the launch of the NASFAT History Book to mark the organisation’s 30th anniversary. “Whatever problems you are having, whatever cries you […]
Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA)
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has advised leaders to prioritise justice and compassion in addressing the country’s challenges.
He spoke on Wednesday at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, during the launch of the NASFAT History Book to mark the organisation’s 30th anniversary.
“Whatever problems you are having, whatever cries you are hearing, don’t flog them with the koboko. Instead, touch them with soft hands and say, ‘Look, things will be okay,’” he said.
He stressed that justice is the foundation of any society, adding that “As Sheikh Abdulrauf said, a nation can endure with unbelief, but it cannot endure with injustice.” He urged both leaders and citizens to uphold truth, reminding public office holders that they would account to God for their actions.
He lamented the poor quality of education for Nigerian youths and encouraged citizens to pray for their leaders instead of cursing them.
“If you pray for your leader and he does good things, you enjoy. If you pander to his whims and he does bad things, you will suffer. So, pray for them to do right, to be just, and to have good health and direction,” he said.
While acknowledging that “times are tough,” the Sultan expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its present challenges. “When times are tough, tough people overcome such times. I believe Almighty Allah will bring ease to all of us in this great country. Let’s go back to Him and Him alone.”
Earlier, NASFAT President, Alhaji Ayodeji Abdulrauf, praised the Sultan and Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for attending the event. He described the newly launched book as a “living testimony” to the vision, sacrifice, and resilience of NASFAT’s founders since its formation on March 5, 1995.
“It is a written reflection of our journey from humble prayer meetings in Lagos to a global faith-based organisation with over 360 locations worldwide. NASFAT has promoted social welfare, education, healthcare, and moral values, impacting lives across continents,” Abdulrauf said.