Senator Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central) at the weekend donated N10 million to the launch of a book on Ilorin Emirate indigenes.
The book, ‘Ilorin Emirate Frontliners’, is authored by National Secretary of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU), Mallam Abubakar Imam.
Senator Mustapha, who doubles as the Turaki of Ilorin, also pledged to sponsor a documentary based on the book and make it digitally available for research.
The projected cost of the documentary and other add-ons is about N20 million. He also promised to ensure the production of an audio version of the book to be aired on a dedicated local radio in the Emirate, in episodes.
The senator announced that his office would be donating copies of the book to public and private libraries within and outside the Ilorin Emirate.
The book is a documentation and celebration of careers, achievements and contributions of over 300 distinguished individuals from the Ilorin Emirate, President of Ilorin Emirate Elites Forum (IEEF) Uthman Mohammed, said.
According to him, the book aims to underscore contributions of the emirate to national and human development, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to appreciate and emulate.
“The adaptation of the book into a documentary serves a dual purpose: preserving the memories of Ilorin Emirate’s frontliners, and showcasing their values and contributions to the world. By connecting families and providing historical context, the documentary sets the stage for the future of the Emirate.
“Mallam Saliu Mustapha’s gestures exemplify his deep affection for Ilorin and his dedication to the growth of the Emirate and Kwara State as a whole.
“Since becoming the Turaki of Ilorin, he has not only embraced the honour, but also fulfilled the expectations and responsibilities of the position. His actions and philanthropy have garnered widespread admiration, making him a household name not only within Kwara but throughout Nigeria. The Turaki’s commitment, responsiveness, and promotion of the core values of Ilorin are exemplary, setting a high standard for others to follow,” he added.