Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq joined dignitaries in reopening the historic 217-year-old mosque in Ilorin

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara and Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno attended the reopening of the renovated 217-year-old Imam Gambari Mosque in Ilorin.

The mosque, one of Ilorin’s oldest Islamic centres, attracted dignitaries, clerics, and community leaders. Both governors made donations to support its upkeep.

The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, urged worshippers and leaders to contribute towards the mosque’s maintenance. Chief Imam Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Solihu thanked the governors for their support.

Justice Idris Abdullah Haroon (rtd), chairman of the reconstruction committee, said the project reflects faith, unity, and scholarship. Originally built in 1808 by the Gobir family, the mosque was rebuilt under the leadership of Alhaji Yakubu Gobir after initial financial challenges.

The renovated mosque now features a library, larger capacity, and modern facilities while preserving its traditional design. Plans are underway to establish a committee to manage its maintenance.

The reopening was also attended by Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, and other notable figures from Ilorin.

He expressed appreciation to the contractors, artisans, and donors who contributed to the successful completion of the project.

The governor added that a separate committee would soon be established to oversee the mosque’s maintenance, noting that plans were also underway to employ staff for its management.

He encouraged more contributions towards the upkeep of the mosque, saying such efforts would attract divine rewards.

Originally built in 1808, the Imam Gambari Mosque stands as one of the earliest centres for Jumu’at prayers, tafsir sessions, and Qur’anic studies in Ilorin. The renovated edifice now includes a library, increased capacity, and modern facilities that blend traditional and contemporary designs.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, joined Governor Zulum at the ceremony.

Other dignitaries in attendance included the Imam Gambari of Ilorin, Alhaji AbdulAzeez Sulyman; Grand Khadi of Kwara State, Justice Abdullateef Kamaludeen; Dan Masani of Ilorin, Engineer Suleiman Yahaya Alapansapa; and Ambassador Yahaya Seriki, among others.

Source: Daily Trust