The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Council, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has approved the appointment of Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki as the 13th Chief Imam Fulani of the Ilorin Emirate, following a comprehensive selection process involving respected Islamic scholars and stakeholders within the Emirate.
His appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter in the religious leadership of one of Nigeria's most influential Islamic communities and reinforces Ilorin's long-standing reputation as a centre of Islamic scholarship and spiritual guidance.
At 42, Sheikh Dasuki belongs to one of the most respected families of Islamic scholars in the Emirate. He is the grandson of the 8th Chief Imam Fulani of Ilorin, Sheikh Ibrahim Dasuki Imam Fulani Agaka, and the son of the 10th Chief Imam Fulani, Sheikh Maliki bn Dasuki Agaka. His emergence therefore represents the continuation of a distinguished legacy deeply rooted in Islamic learning, leadership and service to the Muslim community.
Prior to his appointment, Sheikh Dasuki built an impressive reputation as an Islamic scholar, teacher and spiritual mentor. He is the founder and proprietor of Darul Bisharah Arabic and Islamic Studies, located in Airport, Egbejila, Ilorin, where he has spent years nurturing students in Arabic language studies, Islamic jurisprudence and moral instruction.
Beyond his educational contributions, he served as the Imam of Afsat Oloriegbe Memorial Mosque, Oko-Olowo, Ilorin, where he led congregational prayers, delivered sermons and provided guidance to worshippers on religious and social matters.
His academic journey further strengthened his standing within Islamic circles. Sheikh Dasuki studied at several institutions before proceeding to Al-Azhar University, one of the world's most prestigious centres of Islamic learning, where he obtained a Bachelor's degree in Islamic Shari'ah.
The new Chief Imam is also widely recognised for his contributions to Islamic media and education. He has featured as a presenter on the Al-Bisharah Islamic Foundation Ramadan programme on Radio Kwara, where his teachings have reached thousands of listeners. In addition, he serves as a lecturer at Darul Kitab College of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Gaa Akanbi, Ilorin.
Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki succeeds the late Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, the 12th Chief Imam Fulani of Ilorin, who passed away on January 19, 2026, after more than 40 years of service to the Emirate. During his tenure, the late cleric was widely respected for his commitment to Islamic teachings, peace and community development.
The appointment of Sheikh Dasuki has been warmly received by Islamic scholars, traditional leaders and residents of the Ilorin Emirate, many of whom view him as a worthy successor capable of preserving the values and traditions associated with the revered office.
As the new Chief Imam Fulani of Ilorin assumes office, expectations are high that he will continue to promote Islamic scholarship, strengthen unity among Muslims, mentor the younger generation and contribute to the spiritual and social development of the Emirate.
For many observers, his emergence reflects the enduring strength of Ilorin's Islamic heritage and the Emirate's commitment to preserving a legacy of faith, knowledge and exemplary leadership for future generations.