The Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, has visited the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, to strengthen relations between the two traditional institutions.
During his visit to Sokoto on October 20, 2026, Dokubo-Asari invited the Sultan to the final coronation ceremony of the SE DIYE, scheduled for December 19, 2026, at the King Amachree Memorial Hall in Buguma, Rivers State.
The monarch, also known as Da Amakiri Tubo, said his relationship with the Sultan dated back several years, including occasions when they performed the Hajj pilgrimage together.
“The Sultan and I have known each other for a long time. We have been to Hajj three or four times together in the past,” he said.
Dokubo-Asari also informed the Sultan of the Nikkah ceremony of Princess Nene Amirah Dokubo-Asari, scheduled for December 18, a day before the coronation.
He explained that the coronation process involved several stages, adding that the December 19 ceremony would mark his formal presentation to his people.
Responding, the Sultan expressed delight at receiving the Rivers State delegation and commended Dokubo-Asari for his humanitarian activities and contributions to Muslim and non-Muslim communities.
“God is never wrong in whatever he does. For him to be elevated now means the works he has been doing have had a positive impact on the people,” the Sultan said.
He described leadership as a responsibility entrusted by Almighty Allah and assured the visiting monarch of his continued support.
“By the grace of Almighty Allah, I will try and make it to your coronation,” he said.
The visit underscored efforts by the two traditional institutions to strengthen relationships across Nigeria’s geographical and cultural divides.
Elem Kalabari, a historic maritime community in the Niger Delta, developed through riverine commerce, diplomacy and the traditional canoe-house system. At the same time, Sokoto became the centre of the nineteenth-century Sokoto Caliphate, established following the movement led by Sheikh Usman dan Fodio.
The December 19 ceremony is expected to attract traditional rulers, government representatives, cultural leaders and other dignitaries to Buguma for the final coronation and ascension ceremony marking Dokubo-Asari’s reign as Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari.
The proposed participation of the Sultan is expected to strengthen further ties between the two traditional institutions through cultural exchanges and continued engagement.
The SE DIYE ceremony will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2026, at the King Amachree Memorial Hall, Buguma, Rivers State.
