Fellow Kwarans, I am compelled to proclaim that God Almighty indeed rewards individuals for their good deeds, as espoused in the Quran and Bible. It is written that God Almighty does not condone evil and has never claimed otherwise. Therefore, we must introspect and acknowledge that our actions have consequences.
The notion that family lineage influences the character of children and grandchildren holds truth. Some families are renowned for their kindness and generosity, traits that are often emulated by their descendants. Consequently, we must strive to bequeath a legacy of excellence to future generations.
This sentiment is embodied in the remarkable story of Alhaji Yakubu Gobir, the 10th Sarkin Gobir of Ilorin Emirates. On February 4, 2025, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Council of Chiefs, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, announced Alhaji Yakubu Gobir’s appointment as the new Sarkin Gobir .
This appointment was a testament to Alhaji Yakubu Gobir’s exceptional leadership and community development expertise. As the Madawaki of Ilorin and Wazirin Kasar Hausa, he has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the progress of Ilorin Emirates.
I am deeply impressed by this announcement and feel inspired to share the story of this remarkable community development expert. Alhaji Yakubu Gobir’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of others is a shining example of selflessness and compassion.
Alhaji Yakubu Gobir’s heart beats for the less privileged, and his passion is contagious! Through his foundation, Gobir Foundation, he has been a beacon of hope for countless individuals, providing social assistance that has transformed lives. From paying school fees to covering medical bills, renovating schools, and implementing various social interventions, his philanthropic efforts have left an indelible mark on Kwara State.
What’s more striking is his unwavering commitment to empowering communities. My organization, Elites Network for Sustainable Development (ENetSuD), had the privilege of partnering with Gobir Foundation two years ago on a needs assessment project across Kwara State. Despite facing criticism from some quarters, we stood firm, armed with facts and a shared vision for community development.
I recall my encounters with Alhaji Yakubu Gobir, and his humility and dedication to philanthropy are traits that have left a lasting impression on me. Our first meeting at his residence in Fate with my team,where we signed an MoU for the Citizens Enlightenment and Mobilization Program (CEMP), was a defining moment. His words still resonate with me: Welcome, but do you think people won’t criticize you for partnering with my foundation?” My response was unequivocal, “We’re used to it. let them criticize us, and we’ll continue to educate them”. (laugh)
Our second encounter during a press conference at Correspondence Chapel in Muritala, Ilorin, further reinforced my admiration for his selflessness. Although I invited him to my book launch, he was unable to attend due to his absence from Nigeria. Despite our limited interactions, his philanthropic gestures have spoken volumes. His donation of over ₦26 million to civil society organizations for a statewide needs assessment is a testament to his extraordinary generosity.
Alhaji Yakubu Gobir’s story is a shining example of the impact one person can have on a community. As he continues to inspire and uplift the people of Kwara State, his legacy will undoubtedly be etched in the annals of history.
Alhaji Yakubu Gobir’s philanthropic prowess knows no bounds! He took his generosity to unprecedented heights by committing a staggering ₦100,000,000:00 (One Hundred Million Naira) to the comprehensive renovation of the iconic Okesuna Primary School in Ilorin.
This historic institution holds a special place in Alhaji Gobir’s heart, as it was the alma mater of his grandfather, father, uncles, and several family members, as well as numerous Ilorin indigenes. What’s more, Okesuna Primary School is the oldest primary educational institution in Ilorin!
But that’s not all – Alhaji Gobir is currently driving the completion of the ancient Gambari Mosque in Ilorin, a project that has already gulped over ₦250,000,000:00 (Two Hundred and Fifty Million Naira) of his hard-earned resources. This monumental project will undoubtedly consume even more of his wealth before its eventual completion.
What drives this unassuming philanthropist? The answer is simple: Alhaji Yakubu Gobir derives immense joy from contributing to the development of Ilorin. His selflessness is a beacon of hope, inspiring countless others to follow in his footsteps.
Alhaji Yakubu Gobir’s commitment to community development is deeply rooted in his family’s legacy. His illustrious grandfather, Mallam Muhammadu Ajeigbe Gobir, was a pioneer in community service, holding the hereditary title of Sarkin Gobir of Ilorin and the honorific title of Waziri of Ilorin . This legacy of service has been passed down through generations, with Alhaji Yakubu Gobir’s father, Ambassador Abubakar Garba Gobir, and uncles, Alhaji Yusuf Amuda Gobir, OFR, Alhaji Yakubu Amori Gobir, and Alhaji Amuda Ahmadu Gobir, all making significant contributions to community development.
As revealed to me by Bolaji Gobir , Alhaji Yakubu Gobir’s commitment to community development is a testament to his family’s enduring legacy. His appointment as the 10th Sarkin Gobir of Ilorin is a recognition of his tireless efforts to uplift his community, and his story serves as an inspiration to future generations.
The new Sarkin Gobir, Alhaji Yakubu Gobir, has a monumental task ahead of him. As the 10th Sarkin Gobir, he is expected to be a unifying figure for the entire Gobir dynasty, inspiring unity and progress among his people.This noble responsibility will undoubtedly provide him with even more opportunities to make a positive impact on the lives of others, building on his already impressive track record of philanthropy.
As a rallying figure, Alhaji Yakubu Gobir will be the embodiment of his dynasty’s values and traditions. His leadership will be instrumental in promoting the progress and development of Ilorin, a city that holds a special place in his heart. With his appointment, he is poised to take his community development efforts to new heights, leaving an indelible mark on the city and its people.
This new chapter in his life is not just a call to service, but also an avenue for Alhaji Yakubu Gobir to do even more good. With his remarkable background in business, community development, and philanthropy, he is well-equipped to drive transformative change in Ilorin. As he embarks on this noble journey, he will undoubtedly inspire countless others to follow in his footsteps, leaving a lasting legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.
Heartfelt congratulations to Alhaji Yakubu Gobir on his ascension as the 10th Sarkin Gobir! May your reign be marked by unprecedented prosperity, peace, and progress for the Gambari community, Kwara State, and the entire nation.
There is no doubt that your visionary leadership will usher in a new era of development and growth, benefiting all.
