Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, a former military officer in the Nigerian Army, rose to prominence as the 20th Sultan of Sokoto in 2006, becoming one of the most influential spiritual leaders for Muslims in Nigeria.
Humble Beginnings and Education
Born on August 24, 1956, in Sokoto, Abubakar is the son of the late Sultan Siddiq Abubakar Illo.
He started his education at Sultan’s Ward Primary School before attending Barewa College in Zaria, one of Nigeria’s most prestigious schools.
He later enrolled at the Nigerian Defense Academy, laying the foundation for a distinguished military career.
A Distinguished Military Career
Muhammadu Abubakar served in the Nigerian Army for over 30 years, achieving the rank of Brigadier General.
His career included commanding peacekeeping troops in Chad and overseeing the 231 Tank Battalion during ECOMOG operations in Sierra Leone.
He also served as Nigeria’s Defense Attaché to Pakistan from 2003 to 2006.
Transition to the Sultanate
Following the passing of his elder brother, Abubakar retired from active military service to assume the role of Sultan of Sokoto. He was officially enthroned on November 2, 2006.
Leading the Qadiriyya and Islamic Affairs
As Sultan, Abubakar leads the Qadiriyya Sufi order and serves as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).
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