From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, came alive on Friday as Vice President Kashim Shettima, and a host of high-profile dignitaries gathered at the Emir’s Palace to honour renowned legal luminary, Professor Yusuf Ali (SAN), who was officially turbaned as the Kuliyan Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate.
The colourful event reflected the deep respect and admiration the legal scholar commands across Nigeria. Governors, ministers, legal heavyweights, and academics converged on Ilorin to witness the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, confer the prestigious title on the Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
Representing Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, at the ceremony was Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu. Other top dignitaries in attendance included Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, and former Kano State Governor Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau.
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Describing the honour as well-deserved, the Emir lauded Professor Ali’s decades-long contributions to the growth of Ilorin Emirate and beyond.
“You stood by us when things were tough. For nearly 20 years, you have used your resources, intellect and influence to promote the Ilorin Emirate. This turbaning is in recognition of your unwavering service,” the Emir declared.
He added, “You are now our number one legal adviser. Your legacy will be remembered for generations.”
Visibly moved, Professor Yusuf Ali expressed appreciation for the recognition and the overwhelming support he received.
“I am truly humbled. This outpouring of love from the Vice President, governors, and other dignitaries means so much to me,” he said. “I thank the Emir and the entire Ilorin Emirate for this honour. I will continue to serve my people wholeheartedly.”
The event attracted notable personalities such as the Ciroma of Ilorin, Alhaji Abubakar Bature Sulu-Gambari; Mutawali of Ilorin, Dr. Alimi AbdulRazaq; Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole; and founder of Al-Hikmah University, Alhaji AbdulRaheem Oladimeji.
Also in attendance were the Mufti of Ilorin, Sheikh Faruq Onikijipa; Professor Wale Sulaiman; legal practitioners Salman Adelodun (SAN) and Kehinde Eleja (SAN); former Grand Khadi of Kwara, Justice Idris Haroun; and Federal Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore.
The turbaning signifies formal recognition of Professor Ali’s towering influence in law, education and community service. Many in attendance described him as a man of integrity and an inspiration to younger generations.
A legal practitioner based in Ilorin, AbdulLateef Adebayo, summed up the sentiment of many: “The calibre of people here today, including the Vice President, speaks volumes. Professor Ali is a national treasure—his service goes far beyond the courtroom.”
For Ilorin Emirate and indeed Nigeria, the elevation of Professor Yusuf Ali, is not just a cultural ceremony, it is a celebration of excellence, integrity and service to humanity.
