National Unity: Dokubo-Asari Visits Sultan, Invites Him to Coronation
By Akin Alade
Efforts to strengthen cultural understanding and peaceful coexistence between Northern and Southern Nigeria received fresh momentum as prominent Niger Delta leader and Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari, Alhaji Mujahid Asari Dokubo, paid a royal visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, ahead of his forthcoming coronation ceremony in Rivers State.
The visit, which took place at the Sultan’s palace in Sokoto on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, provided an opportunity for both traditional leaders to reaffirm their commitment to national unity, mutual respect and cooperation. Dokubo-Asari formally invited the Sultan to his final coronation ceremony scheduled for December 19, 2026, at the King Amachree Memorial Hall in Buguma, Rivers State.
Speaking during the meeting, Dokubo-Asari described his relationship with the Sultan as one built on longstanding friendship and mutual understanding, revealing that they had performed the Hajj pilgrimage together on several occasions. He explained that the forthcoming ceremony would mark the completion of the traditional rites associated with his emergence as Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari.
Beyond the coronation invitation, the Niger Delta monarch emphasised the importance of strengthening relationships between traditional institutions across Nigeria’s geographical and religious divides. He maintained that sustained cooperation between Northern and Southern leaders could promote peaceful coexistence, cultural preservation and national development. He also informed the Sultan of the planned marriage ceremony of his daughter, Princess Nene Amirah Dokubo-Asari, scheduled for December 18.
Responding, the Sultan welcomed the delegation and commended Dokubo-Asari for his humanitarian activities and contributions to communities across religious boundaries. He described traditional leadership as a responsibility entrusted by Almighty Allah and expressed his willingness to attend the coronation ceremony, subject to circumstances. The royal visit also featured discussions on the importance of responsible leadership and strengthening historical ties between Sokoto and the Kalabari Kingdom.
The December coronation is expected to attract traditional rulers, government officials, cultural leaders and other dignitaries to Buguma. Beyond the celebration, the meeting between Dokubo-Asari and the Sultan highlights the potential of Nigeria’s traditional institutions to build bridges across ethnic and religious differences, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
