Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Turbanned as Sardauna of Ilorin

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State was formally turbanned as the Sardauna of Ilorin on September 16, 2026. The traditional title, which denotes leadership and prestige, was conferred by the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Kolapo Sulu-Gambari, in recognition of the governor's support for local culture and the Ilorin Grand Durbar.

Vice President Kashim Shettima attended the ceremony at the Emir's Palace and used the visit to inaugurate two major infrastructure projects: the 11-storey Kwara Revenue Service House and the Kwara Garment Factory, which is expected to employ at least 4,000 people. During the festivities, Shettima urged political reconciliation ahead of the 2027 elections, citing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's forgiveness of northern governors who opposed his 2023 bid as a model of maturity.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated the governor, describing the honor as a recognition of AbdulRazaq's leadership and contributions to social cohesion and inclusive growth in Kwara State. Tinubu urged the governor to view the title not merely as an honor, but as a call to greater service and responsibility toward the unity of Nigeria. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State also issued a congratulatory message.