Senator representing Kwara Central at the National Assembly, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has donated a sum of N10 million and promised over N20 million sponsorship for a documentary on successful indigenes of the Ilorin Emirate in Kwara State.
Speaking at the launch of a book on indigenes of the Ilorin Emirate, titled, ‘Ilorin Emirate Frontliners’, authored by the National Secretary of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU), Mallam Abubakar Imam, Senator Mustapha said he would sponsor documentary, based on the book, and make it digitally available globally for people to have access to it for research purposes.
The projected cost of the documentary and other add-ons was to be in the region of N20 million.
Mustapha, who doubles as the Turaki of Ilorin also promised to ensure production of an audio version of the book to be aired in episodes on dedicated local radio stations in the Emirate.
The philanthropist-turned politician announced that his office would be donating copies of the book to public and private libraries within and outside Ilorin Emirate.
Scores of indigenes of the Ilorin emirate in the five local government areas of Asa, Moro, Ilorin West, Ilorin South and Ilorin East of Kwara state converged on Ilorin, the state capital at the launch of the book.
Also speaking, President of Ilorin Emirate Elites Forum (IEEF) Uthman Mohammed, said that the book is a documentation and celebration of careers, achievements and contributions of over 300 distinguished individuals from the Ilorin emirate.
Alhaji Mohammed said that the book aimed at underscoring contributions of the emirate to national and human development, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to appreciate and emulate.
Alhaji Mohammed also said that motivation of the author of the book stemmed from the desire to preserve and highlight the careers and contributions of selected accomplished individuals from Ilorin Emirate.
“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 receiving the traditional title of Turaki of Ilorin, he has not only embraced the honor 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.
“Turaki of Ilorin Emirate has once again demonstrated his unwavering dedication to his legislative and traditional responsibilities. His generous contributions, both financially and in terms of supporting the book documentary, underscore his love for Ilorin and his commitment to its growth and prosperity. Turaki’s action serves as an inspiration to others, and his contributions will leave a lasting impact on the preservation and celebration of Ilorin Emirate’s remarkable frontliners”, he said.
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