The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged newly turbaned title holders in the Sultanate to uphold integrity, accountability and dedication in serving their communities.

The Sultan, who is also President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, gave the charge during a turbaning ceremony held at his palace in Sokoto on Saturday, where traditional titles were conferred on 15 individuals.

Addressing the appointees, the monarch stressed the importance of honesty in leadership and encouraged them to always speak the truth to leaders, including himself.

“Keep on telling us the truth all the time. Whenever we go astray, bring us back on track; it is part of your responsibility,” he said.

The Sultan added that leaders must also be willing to justify their decisions when necessary, noting that the new title holders were expected to act as ambassadors of the Sultanate and remain committed to the welfare of the people.

Among those turbaned were Umaru S. Abubakar III as Sarkin Arewan Sokoto, Alhaji Haliru S. Abubakar III as Janjunan Sokoto, Alhaji Ya’u Aliyu as Dikkon Sokoto, and Alhaji Aliyu Suleiman as Bunun Sokoto.

Others included Mu’azu Bello Maiwurno as Wakilin Ayukkan Daular Usmaniyyah, Ahmad Rufa’i Na Dange as Sarkin Tsabta, and Bello Ibrahim Gusau as Sarkin Malammai.

The ceremony was attended by representatives of the Sokoto State Government, the Emirs of Gwandu and Argungu, members of the Sultanate Council, kingmakers and other dignitaries.