The historic turbaning of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq as Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate took place on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the Emir's palace in Ilorin. The event was attended by eminent personalities from all walks of life, including the Vice President, governors, senators, traditional rulers, and other distinguished guests. The occasion was a grand celebration that showcased the prime place Governor AbdulRazaq occupies in Nigeria's affairs and his critical role in the country's growth and development.
The celebration was marked by an overwhelming show of goodwill messages from President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors, monarchs, institutions, and even commoners. These messages described Governor AbdulRazaq as a man of honour, a statesman, and a quintessential leader. The event highlighted AbdulRazaq's contributions to national development, with Ilorin playing host to high-profile personalities from within and outside Nigeria.
At least eight aircrafts touched down at the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin, with many high-profile personalities on board. Nigeria's Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, was received by Governor AbdulRazaq, alongside governors of Imo, Kaduna, Kebbi, Ogun, and Gombe states. Other notable attendees included the Attorney General of Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, and the minister of State for Industry.
The event was also attended by governors of Ekiti, Niger, and Plateau states, former Governor of Niger State, Senator Sani Bello, and the chairman of BUA Group, Alh AbdulSamad Rabiu. Other dignitaries present included the chairman, Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji, and Deputy Governors of several states. The Emir of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, traditional chiefs, and the Council of Ulamas also graced the occasion.
In his goodwill message, President Bola Tinubu described the turbaning of AbdulRazaq as the Sardauna of Ilorin as historic. Tinubu commended the Emir of Ilorin, Alh Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, for bestowing the prestigious title on Governor AbdulRazaq, who is also President of the Forum of Regions of Africa. The president's message was signed by his special adviser on Information and Strategy.
The turbaning ceremony was a colourful event that showcased the rich cultural heritage of Ilorin Emirate. The Wife of the governor of Kwara State, Amb. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, state deputy governor, Mr Kayode Alabi, and other notable personalities were present to witness the occasion. The Mutawali of Ilorin and elder brother to the governor, Dr Alimi AbdulRazaq, also attended the event.
The Sardauna title is a prestigious honour that recognizes Governor AbdulRazaq's leadership and public service. The event has further solidified AbdulRazaq's position as a respected leader in Nigeria, with the Vice President and other dignitaries showing their support for his administration.
Key points
- Governor AbdulRazaq was turbaned as the Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate on September 16, 2026.
- The event was attended by high-profile personalities, including the Vice President and governors from across Nigeria.
- President Bola Tinubu described the turbaning as historic and commended the Emir of Ilorin for bestowing the title on Governor AbdulRazaq.
