Why construction of Ilorin Palace pavilion became imperative — Senator Mustapha

Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Senator Saliu Mustapha has revealed the motivation behind his facilitation of the construction of a state-of-the-art pavilion at the Emir of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari palace.

Speaking through his aide, Alabi Abdulkareem, during a phone-in programme on an Ilorin-based radio station, Sobi FM on Friday, Senator Mustapha stated that the idea was first discussed with him by the Emir of Ilorin.

The proposal was originally floated during the 2023 Ilorin Durbar celebrations by the Durbar Committee, led by Yahaya Alapansapa, who presented a prototype design for the project.

“The project aligns with the aspirations of the Emirate, which the Durbar Committee has consistently championed,” Mustapha said, adding that the pavilion will address a long-standing need for a permanent structure at the Emir’s forecourt.

Senator Mustapha explained that the Emir’s forecourt serves as a central hub for cultural, social, and developmental activities in the Emirate. It hosts key events such as the IEDPU Annual Conference, the Ilorin Durbar, and the IEYDA Annual Lecture and Empowerment Programme.

“For years, organisers of these events have spent millions of Naira on makeshift structures,” he said. “These costs, often borne by myself and other prominent sons and daughters of the Emirate, are unsustainable. This pavilion will not only eliminate these recurring expenses but also elevate the dignity and prestige of our communal activities.”

He emphasised that the project is not limited to benefit the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) but will serve the broader interests of all sons and daughters of the Emirate who would be using the project from time to time.

Describing the pavilion as a transformative addition to the Emirate’s infrastructure, Senator Mustapha noted that the facility will serve as a sustainable hub for cultural, social, and developmental engagements.

“The pavilion, once completed, will create a legacy of convenience and prestige for the Emirate. It will also provide a permanent solution to the logistical challenges faced during our events,” he said.

He thanked the Federal Government for supporting the initiative and expressed gratitude to the Emir of Ilorin for his vision and leadership in conceiving the project.

This project is one of many being facilitated by Senator Mustapha to the Kwara Central Senatorial District. In the last 15 months, he has facilitated the construction of other capital projects, including roads, and schools, among others.

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