The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Mai-Martaba Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, has rejoiced with Dr. Muhammad Bahir Imam-Soliu OON on his attainment of 40years in office as the Chief Imam of Ilorin Emirate.

Alhaji Sulu-Gambari described the cleric as a forthright person who has used his God-given talent and oratory to effect positive changes in the society in the past four decades.

The Emir stated this in a goodwill message issued by his spokesman, Mallam Abdulazeez Arowona, on Monday, confirming that thanksgiving prayers and special jumat service has been organized to mark the memorable event on Thursday 9th March 2023 at 10am as well as Friday 10th March 2023 at 2pm respectively at the Ilorin Central Mosque.

The monarch added that Dr. Muhammad Bashir popularly called “Imam Fulani” has effectively utilized his office as the Chairman of the State Council of Ulama to unite clerics as well as foster peace and inter-religious harmony among Muslims and non-Muslims in the state.

Alhaji Sulu-Gambari said: “His well-researched regular Friday sermons and annual Ramadan Tafsir are evergreen with strong diction, thereby influencing and mentoring both young and old in the society. His leadership qualities, vast knowledge, commitments and dedication to 'Dawah' activities in the last 40years has further confirmed you as a devout Muslim and lover of peace.

“May Almighty Allah continue to enrich you in knowledge, wisdom and sound health in the meritorious to the Ilorin Emirate, Kwara State and humanity in general.”

It would be recalled that Dr. Muhammad Bashir Imam-Soliu was appointed as the Chief Imam of Ilorin Emirate by the late 9th Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Zulqarnain Muhammadu Gambari, following the demise of Imam Musa Ahmad in 1983 .