DG NILDS Marks 60th Birthday with Homecoming Prayers in Ilorin

By Chinedu Echianu

The Government Reservation Area (GRA) residence of the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, was filled to capacity on Sunday, as dignitaries, Islamic clerics, family, friends, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate his 60th birthday with special prayers.

The event, held in Ilorin the Kwara State capital, drew a large crowd of political leaders, academics, sports administrators, entrepreneurs, media executives, and traditional title holders who came to honour the distinguished scholar and public servant.

Prominent Islamic scholars, including the National Missioner of the Ansarul-Islam Society of Nigeria, Sheikh Abdulmumeen Anafi Ayara, led the prayers and sermon. Sheikh Ayara commended Professor Sulaiman for his integrity, humility, and exemplary leadership, urging him to continue his philanthropic efforts that have endeared him to many, particularly the less privileged.

Other clerics, such as the Mufassir Gambari, Sheikh Sannu Shehu, also offered prayers for the NILDS boss, describing him as a charismatic and compassionate leader whose contributions have positively impacted lives across different sectors.

The event featured Quranic recitations, presentations of souvenirs, and cultural performances by troupes from the Kwara State Council for Arts and Culture.

The celebration, which many described as a “homecoming of honour,” underscored Professor Sulaiman’s deep connection with his community and his enduring legacy as a scholar, reformer, and public servant.