PROF. ALI AHMAD DELIVERS SARAKI’S MESSAGE OF MENTORSHIP AND VALUES AT KULIYA OF ILORIN BOOK LAUNCH
Prof. Ali Ahmad, former Speaker of the 8th Kwara State House of Assembly and Professor of Constitutional Law, was in attendance at the Public Presentation of the book Kuliya of Ilorin: A Life of Purpose and the unveiling of the Kuliya Ngari of Ilorin Emirate’s National Youth Mentorship Summit, representing the former Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.
Waziri Ngeri of Ilorin, Dr. Saraki, who expressed deep interest and strong support for the programme, was unavoidably absent due to pressing engagements. However, according to Prof. Ali Ahmad, the former Senate President had shown keen personal interest in the initiative and would have loved to be physically present, given his long-standing commitment to intellectual legacy, youth development, leadership grooming, and cultural preservation.
Conveying Dr. Saraki’s message at the event, Prof. Ali Ahmad stated, “This initiative speaks directly to the importance of preserving our intellectual and cultural heritage while intentionally preparing young people for leadership and service.”
Speaking further, Prof. Ahmad commended Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN, FCIArb, describing the book presentation and mentorship summit as timely and purposeful interventions. “The life and values captured in this book remind us that leadership is built on character, discipline, and service to society,” he remarked.
In a strong demonstration of support for the initiative, Prof. Ali Ahmad formally launched the book on behalf of Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, noting that he had donated handsomely in support of the programme, reaffirming Dr. Saraki’s belief in education, mentorship, and the institutionalisation of enduring values for future generations. According to him, “Dr. Saraki remains firmly committed to initiatives that strengthen institutions, promote education, and empower the next generation with the right values.”
Prof. Ali Ahmad also applauded the royal presence and endorsement of the Ilorin Emirate, led by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, who was ably represented at the event by the Balogun Alanamu of Ilorin, Dr. Usman Abubakar Jos, a principal chief of the Emirate Council. He noted that the Emirate’s participation added cultural depth, dignity, and institutional significance to the programme.
He further acknowledged and commended the author of the book, Comrade Abiodun Kareem, a veteran journalist and former leader of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), for his depth of research, disciplined documentation, and commitment to preserving the life, values, and legacy of the Kuliya of Ilorin.
The event, which attracted traditional rulers, academics, legal luminaries, youth leaders, and key stakeholders, was described as a landmark gathering aimed at preserving legacy while deliberately preparing the next generation for leadership and service.
Prof. Ali Ahmad concluded by reiterating Dr. Saraki’s continued support for initiatives that strengthen institutions, empower young people, and promote purposeful leadership across Nigeria.
Signed:
Sa’ad Ayinde
Media Assistant to Prof. Ali Ahmad
Former Speaker, 8th Kwara State House of Assembly