Currently, we focus on a significant declaration from the Emirate of Ilorin: in early 2026, the emirate will name Sheikh Dr Abdulkadir Al-Sa...
Currently, we focus on a significant declaration from the Emirate of Ilorin: in early 2026, the emirate will name Sheikh Dr Abdulkadir Al-Salman Sholabgeru as the "Chief Custodian of Knowledge and Scholars" (Malami Ubandoma), an esteemed position that has been part of Ilorin's long-standing tradition of supporting Islamic education and Da'wah; the event, presided over by His Royal Highness Dr Ibrahim Sulu Ghambari, will take place at the Emirate Palace on 2 January 2026, after a preparatory prayer on 31 December 2025. This appointment recognizes Dr Al-Salman's notable academic achievements, including establishing the Dar al-Kitab was-Sunna College in Ilorin and his impactful role as an imam and preacher at the National Mosque in Abuja, and reflects Ilorin's continued dedication to developing educational institutions, guiding scholars and students, and safeguarding Arab and Islamic heritage, while strengthening its leadership position in West Africa's Islamic scholarly community and its wider national influence through continuous reform. Written by Dr Sheikh Isa Ibrahim Alawonla, founder and director of the Ilorin Centre for Arab and Islamic Heritage, and dated 19 November 2025.
Historical Declaration in the Emirate of Ilorin to Celebrate Learning and Its Beneficiaries
At the beginning of 2026, the Emirate of Ilorin will witness a remarkable blending of academic excellence and spiritual devotion: the announcement of Sheikh Dr Abdul Abdulkadir Al-Salman Sholabgeru's appointment as "Chief Custodian of Knowledge and Scholars" Malami Ubandoma within the Emirate of Ilorin. This distinguished position holds a place among the respected religious titles intertwined with the city's rich history, dedicated to the promotion of knowledge and Da'wah, and rooted in historical traditions that have long connected Ilorin to the world of Islamic scholarship.
This fortunate declaration is endorsed by the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness Alhaji, Dr Ibrahim Sulu Ghambari (CFR), Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, during an official event taking place at the Emirate Palace on Friday, 2 January 2026. A serious period of prayer will come before it, organized by the Emirate on Wednesday, 31 December 2025, involving the city's respected figures and citizens, in honor of his appointment as one of the imams of the National Mosque in Abuja.
The choice of Sheikh Dr Abdulkadir Al-Salman Sholabgeru is based on a strong and lasting academic background, as well as a brilliantly respected religious position. This is demonstrated by his establishment of the Dar al-Kitab was-Sunna College in Ilorin, which has now become a symbol for teaching the sacred sciences (religious knowledge) and the Arabic language, along with his notable position at the National Mosque in Abuja as imam, preacher, and leader for gatherings from all over Nigeria.
The Nigerian people have recognized in Sheikh Abdulkadir Al-Salman Sholabgeru the qualities of a scholar, the characteristics of a teacher, the insight of a preacher, and the duty of an imam who brings together learning with work, spiritual awareness with moral duty. These traits have well prepared him for this prestigious recognition.
The position of "Chief Custodian of Knowledge" is more than just a symbolic title; it is a vital component of the religious and intellectual foundation on which the Emirate of Ilorin has been built over time. This role is closely tied to the promotion of knowledge in its widest sense: fostering academic institutions, mentoring scholars and students, assisting the Sharia councils, and safeguarding the Arab and Islamic heritage for which the city is famous.
Ilorin is recognized as one of the major centers for Islamic education in West Africa. The significance of the position known as "Chief Custodian of Knowledge and Scholars" stems from the responsibilities of its occupant in upholding religious identity, protecting moral values, promoting a balanced culture, revitalizing study groups focused on Tafseer, Fiqh, and Hadeeth, and guiding reform efforts based on solid academic foundations.
As a result, the selection of Sheikh Abdulkadir Al-Salman Sholabgeru for the position sends a clear signal: that the Emirate of Ilorin continues to be committed to its long-standing agreement with education and will not abandon its role as a leader in religious service, nor reduce its duty to spread the faith with honesty, wisdom, and accountability.
These fortunate gatherings, organized by the Emirate, demonstrate the high regard for scholars in the community and reinforce the unity of religious ties that connect the people of Ilorin, encouraging them to respect those who promote learning and enhance its value. The event also offers a chance to reinvigorate the spirit of dialogue among religious organizations, traditional leaders, and academic groups, and to emphasize the city's growing influence in the national religious landscape.
It is hard to dispute that the involvement of religious leaders, intellectuals, and philosophers will add a unique brilliance to these events, making them a shining example in the Emirate's history of knowledge.
On this significant day, the Ilorin Centre for Arab and Islamic Heritage conveys its heartfelt congratulations to Sheikh Dr Abdulkadir Al-Salman Sholabgeru on this distinguished recognition. We pray that Allah, in His mercy, bestows blessings upon him in his scholarly pursuits and efforts, grants him continuous support and achievements, and makes his new position a pathway to greater benevolence, deeper guidance, righteousness, and Da'wah. May He protect the Emirate of Ilorin and enhance its dignity and prosperity. Our sincere congratulations are also extended to the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness Dr Ibrahim Sulu Ghambari, and to all the residents of the Emirate, for this historic moment that fills the heart with pride and respect.
May Allah make this event a beginning of good fortune and blessings for all Muslims in Nigeria, and ensure it has a positive impact on Da'wah, learning, and education.
Dr. Sheikh Isa Ibrahim Alawonla, the founder and director of the Ilorin Centre for Arab and Islamic Heritage, as well as a professor in the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies at Kwara State University in Ilorin, Nigeria (19 November 2025)
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Tagged: Nigeria, West Africa
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