Sultan of Sokoto Ranks Among 500 World’s Most Influential Muslims -

The Sultan Of Sokoto

The leader of Nigerian Muslims, Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has been ranked 17th in the 2026 edition of The Muslim 500: The World’s 500 Most Influential Muslims.

According to the Royal Al-al-Bayt Institute for Islamic Thought in Amman, Jordan, annual publication, a research outfit affiliated with , Sultan of Sokoto is one of the global Muslim leaders whose influence spans governance, scholarship, philanthropy, and advocacy.

His Values

The Muslim 500 outlined several reasons for Sultan Abubakar’s inclusion in the 2026 ranking. Foremost is his unwavering stance against violent extremism. He has consistently condemned Boko Haram, urging Muslims to reject radical ideologies and embrace peace.

Beyond this, the Sultan has been a tireless advocate of interfaith dialogue. As co-chairman of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), he has worked closely with Christian leaders to ease sectarian tensions and foster national unity.

On the global stage, His Eminence Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar has spoken strongly against injustice in Palestine, calling for decisive international action to uphold human rights. His influence also extends into education, humanitarian relief, and broader justice issues, reflecting the soft power he wields across Africa and beyond.

His voice against extremism remains particularly resonant. In one of his widely quoted remarks, the Sultan explained:

“Jihad simply means striving — striving to be a better Muslim, a better Christian, a better citizen, and a better human being. It is not about killing anyone. Islam abhors extremism.”

This recognition testifies to Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar’s enduring role as a moral compass and unifying figure, not only in Nigeria but across the Muslim world. His ability to blend traditional authority with modern engagement continues to make him one of Africa’s most influential religious/traditional leaders and world’s most influential Muslims.

The Sultan of Sokoto , His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar 111, ascended the throne in November 2006,as the 20th Sultan. He is both the traditional ruler of the Sokoto Caliphate and the spiritual leader (Sarkin Musulmi) of Muslims in Nigeria.

Profile and Roles

Spiritual Authority: He serves as the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the head of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI).
Background: Born on August 24, 1956, he is a retired Brigadier General in the Nigerian Army. He held military commands in Chad and Sierra Leone and served as a Defense Attaché before becoming Sultan.

Love: The Light of Islam