12th April, 2025
The Emir’s Palace in Ilorin witnessed a rare gathering of Nigeria’s top political and legal figures on Friday as Vice President Kashim Shettima led a high-powered delegation to honour Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali (SAN), who was officially turbaned as the Kuliyan Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate.
The turbaning, which marks formal recognition of Ali’s outstanding service to the Ilorin Emirate and the nation at large, attracted dignitaries including Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, and former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara was represented by the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu.
In his remarks, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, lauded Professor Ali’s selfless service, describing the title as a reward for decades of loyalty and contribution.
“You earned this title through dedication and consistent support,” the Emir said. “You have given your time, resources, and intellect to uplift our Emirate for nearly 20 years. Today, we formally make you our foremost legal adviser.”
The Emir added that Ali’s name would remain etched in the annals of Ilorin history.
Visibly moved, Professor Yusuf Ali expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as one of the most humbling moments of his life.
“This is not just a title, it’s a call to deepen my service to my people,” he said. “The presence of the Vice President and other eminent Nigerians humbles me greatly. I’m thankful to the Emir and the entire Ilorin Emirate for this honour.”
The event was a convergence of influential figures from the legal, academic, religious, and business communities. Among those present were the Ciroma of Ilorin, Alhaji Abubakar Bature Sulu-Gambari; the Mutawali of Ilorin, Dr. Alimi AbdulRazaq; Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole; and Al-Hikmah University founder, Alhaji AbdulRaheem Oladimeji.
Also in attendance were Sheikh Faruq Onikijipa, Professor Wale Sulaiman, Barristers Salman Adelodun (SAN) and Kehinde Eleja (SAN), Justice Idris Haroun (rtd), and Federal Permanent Secretary Dr. Shuaib Belgore.
The turbaning ceremony was not just a cultural formality but a testament to Ali’s enduring influence across law, education, and community development. Many in attendance hailed him as a man of integrity and a role model for younger generations.
“Prof. Yusuf Ali is more than a legal icon,” said AbdulLateef Adebayo, a legal practitioner in Ilorin. “He represents what is possible when you combine intellect with humility and service. His recognition today is richly deserved.”
The conferment of the Kuliyan Ngeri title further cements Professor Ali’s legacy as one of Nigeria’s most respected legal minds and a pillar of support to the Ilorin Emirate.
