The ancient city of Ilorin is alive with pageantry, tradition, and national celebration today as the Executive Governor of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, is formally turbaned as the Sardauna of Ilorin.


The turbaning ceremony, presided over by the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, at the historic Emir’s Palace, marks a defining moment in the modern cultural and political history of the state.


A Title of Valor, Leadership, and Protection

The Sardauna title—traditionally understood across Northern aristocratic governance as equivalent to the chief counselor and "Defence Minister"—symbolizes leadership, courage, protection, and dedicated public service. In bestowing this prestigious honour, the Ilorin Emirate recognizes Governor AbdulRazaq’s transformative stewardship, his hands-on commitment to regional security, and his administration's deep investments in urban renewal, education, and economic infrastructure across Kwara.


A Gathering of National Stature

The historic occasion has drawn distinguished leaders from across the federation, led by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The forecourt of the Emir's palace is packed with:

  • State Governors and fellow members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum
  • Federal ministers, lawmakers, and senior government officials
  • First-class traditional rulers and royal delegations from across Nigeria
  • Captains of industry, community leaders, and thousands of enthusiastic Kwarans

Connecting Heritage with Progress

Beyond the rich royal regalia, equestrian display, and cultural spectacle, today’s conferment reflects a powerful harmony between Kwara’s deep-rooted traditional institutions and executive statecraft. For the people of Kwara, the turbaning underscores a reign focused on unity, grassroots empowerment, and continuous development.

Congratulations to His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on this well-deserved traditional conferment.


May your reign as Sardauna bring renewed peace, resilience, and greater prosperity to Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State at large.