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Emir Of Ilorin Commissions Rebuilt Ultramodern Imam Gambari Mosque, Hails Yakubu Gobir For Preserving Emirate Heritage
The newly rebuilt mosque, according to participants, stands as a monumental addition to the religious and cultural identity of the Ilorin Emirate.
Ilorin, Kwara State– The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, on Tuesday officially commissioned the ultramodern Imam Gambari Mosque, expressing profound appreciation to the Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of Ilorin Emirate, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, for spearheading the reconstruction and modernization of the historic landmark.
The commissioning ceremony marked the grand finale of a three-day spiritual programme that began on Sunday, featuring Islamic lectures, sermons, and special prayers led by prominent scholars, including Shaykh Sulaiman Dan Borno, Shaykh Habeebullah Adam Al-Ilory, and the Chief Imam of Offa Land, Shaykh Muhyideen Salman Hussein.
The event, which commenced at 10:00 a.m., was described as a celebration of Ilorin’s enduring legacy of faith, scholarship, and unity.
The newly rebuilt mosque, according to participants, stands as a monumental addition to the religious and cultural identity of the Ilorin Emirate.
In his address, the Emir commended Alhaji Yakubu Gobir for his dedication, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the heritage of the Gambari community and the broader Muslim Ummah.
“I want to specially appreciate Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of Ilorin, Alhaji Yakubu Gobir, for his outstanding commitment and generosity towards the reconstruction and completion of this mosque. This contribution is not only to the Gambari community but to the entire Ilorin Emirate and the Muslim Ummah. May Almighty Allah reward him abundantly and grant him success in all his endeavors.”
The Emir also lauded the Gambari community, Islamic leaders, and all contributors who supported the project, describing the new edifice as a house of worship befitting Ilorin’s spiritual stature.
In his remarks, the Sarkin Gobir expressed gratitude to all dignitaries and guests who attended the event.
He particularly thanked the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State for their presence and continued support.
“I sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and His Excellency, Governor Babagana Zulum, for gracing this historic occasion. Your presence is a great honor to me and to the entire Gambari community.”
He also congratulated the Emir on his 30th anniversary on the throne, commending his leadership and legacy.
“I remain forever grateful to our father, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin. I congratulate our Emir on his 30 years of remarkable and impactful reign. May Allah grant him long life, strength, and continued wisdom,” he added.
Gobir further reflected on the historical and spiritual importance of the mosque, reaffirming his commitment to advancing Islamic education and community development across the Emirate.
The ceremony was attended by top dignitaries, including Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Babagana Zulum, traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, public officials, and sons and daughters of the Ilorin Emirate from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
The celebration continues today at 4:30 p.m. with a keynote lecture to be delivered by the Grand Mufti of Ilorin Emirate, Shaykh (Dr.) Sulaiman Faruq Onikijipa, OON.
The newly commissioned Imam Gambari Mosque is now open for worship, Qur’anic learning, and other community religious activities.
