The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State traditional rulers, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has urged the new Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja, Dr. Abdulkadir Salman Solagberu, to use his new post to promote national unity, peace, and development.

He also implored the cleric, who is the first Malami Ubandoma (The Grand Shaykh) of Ilorin, to encourage inter-religious harmony in the country.

Sulu-Gambari, at a special prayer for the new appointee in his palace last Thursday, urged Solagberu to justify the trust reposed in him by the appointment.

The Emir described the choice of Solagberu as: “impressive and honorable to the entire people of Ilorin Emirate and Kwarans in general.”

He expressed confidence in the ability of the scholar to impart knowledge through sermons and other religious engagements.

“This appointment is a new dawn to us in Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State at large,” he said.

According to him, the appointment of Solagberu validated his widely acclaimed scholarship on Islamic affairs, urging him not to disappoint the Muslim community.

He stated that “the Emirate sees your appointment as a validation of your widely acclaimed scholarship on Islamic affairs, and this is the beginning of many good recommendations that will come your way.”

“This your new appointment, in retrospect, is to further confirm that the Ilorin Emirate was meticulous about your choice as the first Malami Ubandoma (The Grand Shaykh) of Ilorin,” the Emir said.

Many prominent Islamic clerics from within and outside the state capital attended the special prayer.