The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has charged the new Sarkin Gobir Ilorin, Alhaji Yakubu Olayiwola Gobir, on the need to foster unity and harmony among the Gobir clan and Ilorin emirate in general.

The monarch gave the charge on Friday during the turbaning of Gobir in the palace where he urged, “With this new role, you must unite the Gobir clan and continue to promote the rich cultural heritage of this Emirate.”

Speaking further at the event that showcased the cultural pride and royal splendour of the Emirate, the Emir described the new traditional title holder as a man dedicated to the welfare of his people.

“Alhaji Yakubu Gobir is a true son of Ilorin, and I am proud of him. He has consistently demonstrated a commitment to community development and the upliftment of the less privileged.

“With this new role, you must unite the Gobir clan and continue to promote the rich cultural heritage of this Emirate. May Almighty Allah guide you aright,” the Emir prayed.

According to the palace, the turbaning has further cemented Gobir’s status as a key figure in Ilorin’s traditional leadership.

The Emir, however, urged Gobir to uphold the virtues of selflessness, integrity, and community service that earned him the prestigious title.

Sighted at the event among others was Prof. Ali Ahmad who described the newly turbaned Sarkin Gobir as a distinguished cultural leader and devout Muslim.

“He deserves this honour due to his proven pedigree, character, and hard work. Now, with both a traditional and honorary title, I congratulate him on this milestone,” he remarked.

Others sighted were: Hon. Moshood Mustapha (Wakilin Ngeri), Dr. Alimi AbdulRazaq (elder brother of the Kwara State Governor and Mutawali Ngeri of Ilorin), Alhaji Abubakar Sulu-Gambari (Chiroma of Ilorin), Sen Abdullahi Gobir (Sokoto State), Alhaji Abdulkadir Attahiru Adamu Manko (Chairman, HAM Foundation), Prof Aisha Gobir, Professor Olaolu Ali (SAN), Hon. Ganiyu Cook Olododo (Mai Gaskiya Ilorin), Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo-Kawu (Kwara State Commissioner for Education), Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim (Sarkin Hausawa of Kwara State), Alhaji Lukman Mustapha (Chairman, Board of Directors, Sobi FM), Professor Suleiman Abubakar Amana, and Alhaji Tajudeen AbdulKadir (The Makama of Lafiaji), among others.

Following the turbaning ceremony, Alhaji Yakubu Gobir rode on horseback in a grand procession to the Emir’s Palace, accompanied by a large crowd of well-wishers.

The colourful display of Ilorin’s rich cultural heritage reaffirmed the deep-rooted traditions of the emirate.

Later in the day, a prayer session was organised in honour of the new Sarkin Gobir at his family compound.

The prayer service was led by the Chief Imam of Gambari, Sheikh Suleiman AbdulAzeez, who prayed for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for the new traditional leader as he assumed his new role.