The city of Ilorin was alive with vibrant colors and the echoes of celebration yesterday as Senator Saliu Mustapha joined esteemed dignitaries and the proud sons and daughters of Ilorin in participating in the much-anticipated Ilorin Grand Durbar 2023.
“Today, alongside other dignitaries, sons and daughters of Ilorin, I participated in the Ilorin Grand Durbar 2023,” said Senator Mustapha, the Turaki of Ilorin, as he joined the grand procession led by His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, the Emir of Ilorin.
The sight of the Mai Martaba and his entourage gracefully parading on beautifully decorated horses and carriages captivated the eager spectators, comprised of both indigenes and visitors, who had gathered to witness the spectacle and splendor.
The Grand Durbar 2023 was not limited to its breathtaking equestrian displays. It also encompassed an annual cultural carnival, offering visitors a mesmerizing glimpse into the history, heritage, and warm hospitality of the Ilorin people.
“Apart from the equestrian displays, the annual cultural carnival provided our visitors a glimpse into the history, heritage, and hospitality of our people,” Senator Mustapha highlighted.
Expressing his gratitude, Senator Saliu Mustapha extended his appreciation to the gatekeepers of Ilorin’s rich cultural heritage, the Baloguns, and Alanguas, for their active and colorful participation in this year’s Grand Durbar.
“My gratitude goes to the gatekeepers of our cultural heritage, Baloguns, and Alanguas, for their active and colorful participation at this year’s event,” he said.
Commending the Durbar Central Committee for their meticulous planning and execution, Senator Mustapha applauded the leadership of Engr. Sulieman Yahaya Alapansanpa, the Danmasani of Ilorin. Under his able guidance, the committee successfully organized a cultural experience that truly reflected the richness and vibrancy of Ilorin’s unique cultural traditions.
“I commend the Durbar Central Committee, under the able leadership of Engr. Sulieman Yahaya Alapansanpa, Danmasani of Ilorin, for organizing a cultural experience which reflects our rich cultural traditions,” Senator Mustapha stated.
As the event drew to a close, Senator Saliu Mustapha took a moment to extend his appreciation to the guests and visitors who had honored the invitation to witness the Grand Durbar 2023.
“I wish guests and visitors who honored our invitation a safe journey back to their respective destinations,” he said, while acknowledging the exceptional hospitality displayed by the good people of Ilorin Emirate.
The resounding success of the 2023 edition of the Grand Durbar serves as a testament to the vibrancy and diversity of Ilorin’s multicultural and multilingual society.
The event showcased the unwavering spirit of the Ilorin people, their strong connection to their cultural heritage, and their determination to celebrate and preserve their identity.
In closing, Senator Saliu Mustapha expressed his gratitude to all those involved in making the Grand Durbar 2023 a remarkable celebration of Ilorin’s rich cultural heritage.
“The 2023 edition of the Grand Durbar is a testament of the vibrancy and diversity of our multicultural and multilingual society,” he emphasized.
You are doing well sir, continue with uncommon representative.