By Abiola Olawale
Vice President Kashim Shettima, a former Nigerian Ambassador to Pakistan, with concurrent accreditation to Maldives, Ambassador Mohammed Bello Abioye; Retired Vice Admiral Jubrila Ayinla, a one time Chief of Naval Staff, among others were among those who graced the turbaning ceremony of legal luminary, Professor Yusuf Ali (SAN), as the Kuliyan Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate, at the weekend.
Also present was an entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kamwir, Dr. Kamaldeen Ibitoye Yusuf.
The New Diplomat reports that the event was held at the Emir’s palace in Ilorin, Kwara State. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara state represented by the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu played host to the distinguished guests at the event.
In his address, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, commended Yusuf Ali for his enduring commitment to the development of the Emirate and described him as a worthy son of the soil.
The Emir said: “Your hard work has earned you the title. You fought for the Emirate. For almost 20 years, you spent your wealth, energy, and time on the development of the Ilorin Emirate. This is why we recognise your effort.
“You stood with us when the going was tough. We will not forget you in the Emirate. We shall relate this message to our unborn children. From this moment, you have become the Emir’s number one legal adviser.”
In his address, Ali expressed his deep gratitude to the Emir and all who honoured him with their presence.
He stated: “I am overwhelmed by the presence of the Vice President and members of his entourage and all the eminent personalities that have come from far and near to honour me.
“I thank the Emir for the honour done me and assure him of my continued support for Ilorin Emirate.”
