On Friday, Vice President Kashim Shettima, along with Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara and Babagana Zulum of Borno, and other distinguished leaders, attended the turbaning ceremony of renowned legal expert, Professor Yusuf Ali (SAN), as the Kuliyan Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate.
Held at the Emir’s palace in Ilorin, the event drew a wide array of prominent figures from across Nigeria, including the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); former Kano State Governor, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola; as well as political, legal, academic, and religious leaders.
Governor AbdulRazaq, who was represented by the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, warmly hosted the Vice President and other key dignitaries.
In his address, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, praised Professor Yusuf Ali for his steadfast commitment to the development of the Emirate, hailing him as an exemplary son of Ilorin.
“Your dedication and hard work have earned you this esteemed title. Over nearly two decades, you have contributed your wealth, energy, and time towards the growth of Ilorin Emirate. This recognition is well deserved,” the Emir said.
He added, “In times of difficulty, you stood with us. Your legacy will be passed on to future generations. From this moment, you are now the Emir’s foremost legal advisor.”
The Emir also urged Professor Ali to continue his philanthropic efforts and to remain a devoted servant of the people.
With deep emotion, Professor Yusuf Ali (SAN) expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Emir and all who honored him with their presence.
“I am deeply touched by the presence of the Vice President, his team, and all the esteemed personalities who have come from near and far to join me in this moment,” he remarked.
“I thank the Emir for this great honor, and I pledge my unwavering support to Ilorin Emirate,” Ali added.
The ceremony was also graced by several dignitaries, including the Ciroma of Ilorin, Alhaji Abubakar Bature Sulu-Gambari; Mutawali of Ilorin, Dr. Alimi AbdulRazaq; Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole; founder of Al-Hikmah University, Alhaji AbdulRaheem Oladimeji; former Grand Khadi of Kwara, Justice Idris Haroun; and the Mufti of Ilorin, Sheikh Faruq Onikijipa.
Other notable attendees included Professors Wale Sulaiman and Obafemi, Dr. Wale Babalakin, Barristers Salman Adelodun (SAN) and Kehinde Eleja (SAN), Federal Permanent Secretary Dr. Shuaib Belgore, Air Vice Marshal Ayinla (rtd), Hajia Muinat Shagaya, Alhaji Kamoru Yusuf of KAM Holdings, and Engr. Lanre Sagaya, among many others.
This turbaning ceremony marks the formal acknowledgment of Professor Ali’s lifetime of service to the legal profession, education, and community development within Ilorin and far beyond.
