The historic community of Igboaran in Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State witnessed a significant spiritual milestone on Monday, June 9, 2025, as Fadeelat Sheikh Ustaz Salman Zubair Taofeequl Khair (Baba Gege-Ire) was officially turbaned as the first Grand Mufti of Igboaran Alayaki.
The turbaning ceremony, held at the Igboaran Primary School Field, drew a large crowd of faithful, traditional leaders, Islamic scholars, government officials, and well-wishers from across Kwara State and beyond.
In attendance was His Royal Highness, Oba Abdul Hameed Adisa, the Alangua of Igboaran Alayaki, who presided over the cultural and royal aspects of the event. His presence underscored the communal unity between the traditional institution and the Islamic leadership of the town.
Also gracing the occasion was Fadeelat Sheikh AbdulRasheed Dr. Funrae, the Grand Mukadam of Jama’at Tijaniyah Ibolo Land, who delivered a powerful message emphasizing the importance of Islamic scholarship and the need for peace and unity in the Ummah.
The academic community was well represented by Professor Raji Shittu of the University of Ilorin. He lauded the elevation of Baba Gegere-Ire and called for greater support for religious education and moral reawakening in society.
Among the distinguished guests were Alhaji CP AbdulFatai Adigun, the Oluomo of Igboaran, whose goodwill message highlighted the significance of the event in strengthening Islamic leadership and moral values in the community.
The President of the Igboaran Descendants Union, Alhaji Okandeji, commended the organizers and described the event as a long-overdue recognition of Sheikh Khair’s contributions to religious enlightenment and community development.
In his keynote address, Alhaji Dr. Murtala AbdulRaheem, the Personal Assistant to the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, congratulated the newly turbaned Grand Mufti and reaffirmed the support of the Emirate and the Council for the continuous growth of Islamic scholarship across the state.
In his acceptance remarks, Sheikh Salman Zubair Taofeequl Khair expressed profound gratitude to Almighty Allah, the community, and all dignitaries present.
He pledged to uphold justice, promote peace, and strengthen Islamic knowledge and spiritual growth among the people of Igboaran and beyond.
The ceremony was marked by prayers, Qur’anic recitations, cultural displays, and expressions of joy from the community, heralding what many described as a new chapter in the religious history of Igboaran.
