BBYDI Celebrates Emir Of Ilorin At 85, Hails Legacy Of Justice, Peace, Youth Advocacy

Ilorin, Kwara State – The Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) has honoured the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, on the occasion of his 85th birthday, celebrating a life marked by service, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to justice and youth empowerment.

In a statement released Tuesday by BBYDI’s Communications Director, Sanni Alausa-Issa, the organisation described the Emir as “a towering symbol of wisdom, service, and peace” whose nearly three decades on the throne have significantly shaped the Ilorin Emirate and inspired communities nationwide.

From his distinguished career in the judiciary to his enduring leadership as Emir, Alhaji Sulu-Gambari has earned national respect as a unifying figure and a voice for interfaith harmony, civic engagement, and education.

“His Royal Highness embodies the values we strive to uphold at BBYDI—justice, inclusiveness, and courage,” said Nurah Jimoh-Sanni, Executive Director of BBYDI.

“His visible support for our GBV prevention work has empowered countless communities to speak out, take action, and create safer spaces for women and girls. We are honoured to have him as a partner in this vital work.”

The Emir’s commitment to youth development and gender justice has been particularly evident in his support of BBYDI’s campaign against gender-based violence (GBV).

His public endorsement of the initiative, according to BBYDI, helped mobilise traditional leaders and foster critical community conversations about violence and equality.

“His Royal Highness stood with us at a time when cultural silence on GBV was deafening,” added Jimoh-Sanni.

“His courage to speak out signalled to other leaders that the safety and dignity of women and girls must be a shared priority.”

The Emir’s legacy also extends into the realm of academia. As Chancellor of both Bayero University, Kano, and Muhammad Kamalud-Deen University, Ilorin, he has used his position to advocate for access to quality education, enlightenment, and innovation.

Throughout his reign, Alhaji Sulu-Gambari has maintained a delicate balance between tradition and modernity, championing dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and community development.

“As he celebrates this milestone, we honour not just the longevity of his reign, but the depth of his impact,” said Jimoh-Sanni.

“May his legacy continue to inspire unity, uphold justice, and strengthen the bonds that hold our communities together.”

The Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) is a youth-led non-governmental organisation committed to advancing gender equity, civic leadership, and social justice through advocacy, community engagement, and grassroots mobilisation.