15/08/2026
Celebrating a Foremost Dahiri Technocrat!
Alhaji Shehu Ahmad Abdul Gafar, Dan Madami of Ilorin, is one of the most respected traditional title holders and distinguished statesmen of contemporary Ilorin Emirate.
A rare-breed statesman, consummate technocrat, distinguished public servant and community leader par excellence.
Baba has devoted decades of his life to the service of Kwara State, Ilorin Emirate and the Muslim community.
Even in his advanced age, he continues to make invaluable contributions to the development and wellbeing of Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State.
He currently serves as Chairman of the Central Working Committee and Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Ilorin Jummu'ah Mosque.
He also served as the National President of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) from 1990 to 1992.
Throughout his illustrious career, Baba was entrusted with numerous enviable responsibilities, which he discharged with distinction and a deep sense of duty.
His public service journey included serving as Chairman of the Kwara State Pilgrims Welfare Board from 1976 to 1980, after which he rose through the ranks to become Permanent Secretary, serving in various ministries of the
Kwara State Government.
He subsequently served as Head of Service and Secretary to the Kwara State Government—positions that reflected the confidence reposed in his competence, integrity and wealth of experience.
His contributions to the preservation and promotion of Islamic knowledge have also been significant. He was appointed by the Emir of Ilorin as Chairman of the Kwara State Qur'anic Competition.
In 2009, he was appointed Acting Pro-Chancellor of Kwara State University, Malete.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions to public service and statesmanship, the Federal Government of Nigeria conferred on him the National honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
Similarly, the 11th Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, honoured him with the prestigious traditional title of Dan Madami of Ilorin Emirate.
The title is a fitting recognition of his long-standing, selfless and distinguished service to the state, the Ilorin Emirate and the Muslim community.
Today, we celebrate a living Dahiri legend whose life represents service, responsibility, experience and statesmanship.
May Allah preserve Baba Dan Madami, grant him long life, sound health and continued strength.
May Allah continue to keep him upon goodness and bless his remaining years with peace, honour and fulfilment.
May He continue to use Baba as a source of wisdom and service to humanity, Islam and Ilorin Emirate in particular. Ameen. 🤲🏽
