The Amanyanabo of the Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusaramapiri, in Rivers State, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, has honoured the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, with a Leadership Award in recognition of his contributions to peace, national unity and responsible traditional leadership.
Dokubo-Asari presented the award during a courtesy visit to the Sultan at his palace in Sokoto on Monday. The visit also provided an opportunity for the Rivers monarch to extend a formal invitation to the Sultan to attend his forthcoming Se Diye, or coronation ceremony, scheduled for December 19, 2026, in Asari-Toru and Degema Local Government Areas of Rivers State.
The Sultan, who is also the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and holds the traditional title of Sarkin Musulmi, welcomed the visiting monarch and his delegation.
The engagement brought together two prominent traditional and religious leaders, providing an opportunity to renew their friendship, exchange views and strengthen relations between traditional institutions across Nigeria’s diverse cultural communities.
Dokubo-Asari, also known as Da Amakiri Tubo and Dabaye Amakiri I, was accompanied by Alabo Prince Tonye Princewill, the Paramount Head of the Da Ogo Group of Houses, alongside other dignitaries, palace aides and special advisers.
During the visit, the Amanyanabo acknowledged the Sultan’s contributions to peacebuilding, unity and responsible traditional stewardship, describing the engagement as an important opportunity to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among traditional rulers.
He emphasised the need for cordial relationships among traditional institutions, noting their vital roles in community development, conflict resolution, cultural preservation and the promotion of peaceful coexistence.
The presentation of the Leadership Award, he said, was a recognition of the Sultan’s distinguished leadership and commitment to fostering harmony among Nigeria’s diverse communities.
In response, the Sultan expressed appreciation to Dokubo-Asari for the visit, the award and the invitation to the forthcoming Se Diye ceremony.
He also conveyed his goodwill towards the historic occasion and expressed his intention to attend the ceremony, signalling support for efforts to strengthen relationships across cultural and geographical boundaries.
The invitation reflects Dokubo-Asari’s commitment to fostering enduring relationships among traditional rulers and promoting mutual respect, cultural understanding and national cohesion.
The Se Diye ceremony, scheduled for December 19, 2026, is expected to attract traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, dignitaries, family members, friends and well-wishers to Asari-Toru and Degema local government areas.
Preparations for the event are expected to provide an opportunity to celebrate Kalabari cultural heritage and highlight the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in promoting unity, preserving cultural identity and strengthening peaceful relations among communities.
The royal engagement in Sokoto has further underscored the importance of dialogue and cooperation among Nigeria’s traditional rulers in building bridges across ethnic, religious and regional divides.
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