Yakubu Gobir Commends Prof. Gbodofu On Emerging Laureate Of 2025 Sheikh Hamad Global Translation Prize

Ilorin,  Kwara State– The Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of Ilorin Emirate, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, has commended the University of Ilorin scholar, Professor Khalilullahi Uthman Gbodofu, for emerging as a laureate of the internationally coveted 2025 Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding.

Professor Gbodofu was honoured in Doha, Qatar, where he received the award from the Crown Prince of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad Al Thani.

The global prize, regarded as one of the most respected recognitions for excellence in translation and intercultural knowledge, places the Nigerian academic among an elite circle of scholars shaping global intellectual discourse.

In a congratulatory message on Friday, Alhaji Gobir said the achievement was not only personal to Professor Gbodofu but also a major milestone for Ilorin Emirate and Nigeria’s intellectual community.

““For a scholar from Ilorin to be recognised on such a prestigious global platform confirms what we have always known that our home remains a centre of intellectual excellence and that our academics can compete favourably with their peers anywhere in the world,” he said,” he said.

Alhaji Gobir described the award as a “proud moment” for the emirate, noting that Professor Gbodofu’s work continues to project the city’s legacy of scholarship, learning, and cultural depth.

He extended prayers to the renowned academic, his family, and the entire UNILORIN community, asking Almighty Allah to further guide and elevate him.

“This honour is well-deserved. May Allah continue to strengthen him, elevate him, and bless his efforts, Ameen” Gobir added.