By Isiaka Babatunde
All roads led to Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Friday, April 11, 2025 as the esteemed Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali SAN was turbaned with a prestigious honour as the first Kuliyan Geri of Ilorin by the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Sulu Gambari CFR.
Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali SAN is indeed a renowned figure in Nigeria and beyond, with a multifaceted personality that has earned him widespread recognition. His influence spans across various sectors, including law, education, healthcare and community development.
Professor Ali is widely regarded as a philanthropist of the highest order. His generosity and kindness have touched the lives of countless individuals, and his philanthropic efforts have been felt across various sectors.
As a renowned lawyer, Professor Ali has established himself as a front-line legal expert in Nigeria. His expertise and professionalism have earned him widespread respect, and he has handled numerous high-profile cases, including election petition matters for prominent figures such as presidents, governors, and traditional rulers.
Through his foundation, the Yusuf Olaolu Ali Foundation, Professor Ali has been able to channel his philanthropic efforts and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. The foundation has provided support to various causes, including education, healthcare, religion, and community development.
One of the key areas of focus for Professor Ali’s philanthropy is education. He has provided support to various educational institutions, including the University of Ilorin, where he donated twin dormitories. He has also provided ICT centers to several universities, including Obafemi Awolowo University and Crescent University.
Professor Ali’s philanthropy has also had a significant impact on communities. He has built mosques, provided scholarships, and empowered the needy through his foundation. His efforts have helped to improve the lives of countless individuals and families.
His commitment to healthcare is evident in his support for various healthcare initiatives. He has donated to hospitals and healthcare centers, and has provided financial support to individuals in need of medical care.
One of Professor Ali’s most notable philanthropic efforts is the donation of a 200-million-naira trauma center to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital. This state-of-the-art facility has provided critical care to countless individuals and has helped to improve healthcare outcomes in the community.
As a lawyer, Mallam Ali has also provided pro bono services to various individuals and institutions, including Kwara State University. His commitment to providing access to justice has earned him due respect, and he is widely regarded as a champion of the oppressed.
Professor Ali is not only a renowned lawyer but also a professor in practice. He has taught law at several universities, including the University of Ilorin, and has written extensively on various legal topics.
Professor Ali’s commitment to justice and fairness has earned him a reputation as a defender of the oppressed. He has used his platform to advocate for the rights of marginalized communities and to promote social justice.
His philanthropy has also extended to community outreach programs. He has sufficiently provided financial support to the sick and needy, and has equally helped to improve the lives of countless individuals.
Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali’s achievements have been recognized by various individuals and organizations. The Nigerian Bar Association Ilorin Branch has praised his commitment to justice and fairness.
Professor Ali’s legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and compassion. His philanthropic efforts have made a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals.
I vividly recall the kindness of Mallam Olaolu Ali, who generously sent me money when I gained admission to the University of Ilorin. What is remarkable is that he did not know me personally at the time. It was through a conversation with my sister that he learned about my admission and chose to offer support. The amount was substantial, and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect, as I was struggling to complete my registration. His selfless act left a lasting impression on me.
Another notable act of kindness by Mallam Olaolu Ali was his decision to fulfill a promise made by the late Professor Muhammed Mustapha Akanbi SAN to the Malete community. Professor Akanbi had pledged to provide a borehole for the community, but unfortunately, he passed away before he could fulfill his commitment. When Mallam Ali learned about this through me, he selflessly offered to honour Professor Akanbi’s promise. He asked the community to choose a location for the borehole, and had it sunk in record time, bringing the community’s long-held dream to fruition.
The choice of Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali SAN as the Kuliyan Geri of Ilorin Emirate by the Emir of Ilorin is a step in the right direction. This prestigious title recognizes his outstanding contributions to all and sundry.
As Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali receives this prestigious honour, it is clear that his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate others. His commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others stands him out, and his philanthropic efforts will undoubtedly continue to make a lasting impact for years to come.
Isiaka Babatunde is the Personal Assistant to the Vice Chancellor, Kwara State University
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