Sultan Congratulates AbdulRazaq on Emergence as Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, has congratulated the Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, on his conferment of the traditional title of Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate.

The Sultan conveyed his congratulations in a personally signed letter dated September 14, 2026, in which he extended his felicitations to the governor on behalf of the Sultanate Council of Sokoto and the NSCIA.

AbdulRazaq is scheduled to be turbaned as the Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, by the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR.

In the letter, the Sultan described the conferment of the title as “a mark of trust, confidence and recognition” of AbdulRazaq’s contributions to the development of Kwara State and Nigeria.

He noted that the governor’s experience in governance, leadership, intergovernmental relations, religious understanding and peace-building would be valuable in his new traditional role.

According to the Sultan, AbdulRazaq’s positions as a recipient of the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and President of the Forum of Regions of Africa had exposed him to considerable leadership responsibilities.

“We are confident that these experiences, together with the wisdom and exposure Allah has bestowed upon you, will be brought to bear positively in your new traditional responsibility as the Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate,” the Sultan stated.

He further described traditional leadership as “a sacred trust,” stressing that those entrusted with such responsibilities must work for the welfare, unity, peace and progress of their people.

The Sultan expressed confidence that AbdulRazaq’s installation would complement the leadership of the Emir of Ilorin and contribute to the continued development, stability and prosperity of the Emirate and Kwara State.

He also noted that the new responsibility could further contribute to peace-building and national cohesion in Nigeria.

The Sultan commended the Emir of Ilorin for considering AbdulRazaq worthy of the traditional honour and prayed for divine guidance, wisdom, good health, humility and strength for the governor as he assumes his new responsibility.

“May He make your tenure as Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate a source of greater blessings to the Emirate, Kwara State and Nigeria, and continue to guide you in your service to humanity,” he prayed.

The Sultan concluded the letter by extending his warmest royal felicitations and best wishes to Governor AbdulRazaq on the occasion.

Signed:
Prince Bashir Adefaka
For: Media Team of the Sultan of Sokoto

September 16, 2026