The Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) has described the Kuliya of Ilorin, Prof. Yusuf Ola-Olu Ali, SAN, as a blessing to Ilorin Emirate and Nigeria as he marks his 70th birthday on Monday, September 7, 2026.

The National President of IEDPU, Alhaji Abdulmumini Ayo Abdulmalik, in a statement issued by the Union's National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Suleiman Shuaib Dagbo, praised the renowned legal practitioner for his longstanding commitment to the peace, progress and development of Ilorin Emirate.

Abdulmalik, who described Prof. Ali as a personal friend of several decades, recalled his numerous contributions to the development of the Emirate and, in particular, his support for IEDPU and its activities.

He also commended Prof. Ali for adopting Ilorin as his home and establishing the headquarters of his celebrated legal practice in the city, noting that this has further strengthened Ilorin's reputation as an important centre of legal practice in Nigeria.

According to him, Prof. Ali's impact is evident in the numerous physical projects he has supported and executed across educational, religious and health institutions in Ilorin.

He added that the Senior Advocate of Nigeria has also distinguished himself as a mentor and role model to many indigenes of Ilorin Emirate, both within the legal profession and in other fields.

Abdulmalik recalled that, in recognition of his contributions to the development of the Emirate, IEDPU inducted Prof. Ali into the prestigious Ilorin Emirate Hall of Fame last year alongside 24 other distinguished personalities, including a former Chief Justice of Nigeria.

The IEDPU President further described Prof. Ali as a successful professional who has remained simple, humble, religious and approachable despite his accomplishments.

He thanked Allah for preserving the legal luminary in good health and urged him to continue supporting Ilorin Emirate and humanity at large.

Abdulmalik wished Prof. Ali many more years of sound health, happiness and continued service to society.