The historic Gambari community in Ilorin, Kwara State, witnessed a momentous gathering yesterday as the Ultramodern Imam Gambari Mosque was officially commissioned by His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Council of Chiefs.
The commissioning ceremony marked the conclusion of a three-day spiritual programme which began on Sunday. The events featured Islamic lectures, special prayers, and sermons delivered by notable scholars including Shaykh Sulaiman Dan Borno, Shaykh Habeebullah Adam Al-Ilory, and the Chief Imam of Offa Land, Shaykh Muhyideen Salman Hussein.
Yesterday's grand session commenced at 10:00am with the formal unveiling of the edifice, described as a monumental addition to the religious and cultural heritage of the Ilorin Emirate. The new mosque stands as a symbol of unity, spiritual advancement, and the enduring continuity of Islamic scholarship in the ancient city.
The Emir of Ilorin expressed deep appreciation to the Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of Ilorin Emirate, Alhaji Yakubu Gobir, for spearheading the reconstruction, modernization, and completion of the historic mosque. He described the gesture as a noble service to the heritage and spiritual identity of Ilorin.
The Emir said: “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 further appreciated the Gambari community, Islamic leaders, and every supporter who contributed to making the mosque a befitting house of worship.
In his remarks, the Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of Ilorin Emirate, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, expressed gratitude to dignitaries who honored the event. He thanked the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State for their presence and continued support.
Sarkin Gobir said: “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 appreciated the Emir of Ilorin and congratulated him on his 30th anniversary on the throne.
He added: “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.”
Sarkin Gobir further reflected on the historical significance of the mosque to the Gambari community and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Islamic education and communal development in Ilorin Emirate.
Dignitaries present at the ceremony included: The Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State; prominent scholars; traditional rulers; public office holders; and sons and daughters of the Ilorin Emirate at home and abroad.
The grand finale continues today at 4:30pm with a keynote lecture by Shaykh (Dr.) Sulaiman Faruq Onikijipa, OON, the Grand Mufti of Ilorin Emirate.
The newly commissioned Imam Gambari Mosque is now fully open for worship, Qur’anic learning, and community religious activities.
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