By Silifat Jumoke Adeyemi
In what could be likened to the close of a chapter, Hajia Munirat Ayoola Alao-Dagbo, a distinguished educationist and revered community leader, passed away at the age of 79.
For her family, associates and admirers, 27th of July 2025 was a dark day in history. Hajia Munirat breathed her last, leaving behind a catalogue of legacies that cannot be wished away in years to come.
Born on the 7th of November 1946 into the Bakare Adeyemi Alata family of Esso Isale Compound, Offa, the deceased was a proud daughter of Offa. She was married to the late Alhaji Abdulkadir Oba Alao of the Dagbo-Meji family of Ilorin, a former Registrar of the University of Ilorin.
Hajia Munirat began her career as a classroom teacher and rose to the pinnacle of her profession. She served with distinction as the Principal of Queen Elizabeth Secondary School, Ilorin, from 1989 to 2006, and retired as a Director at the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission. Her career was marked by dedication, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
A devout Muslim, Hajia Munirat lived a pious life and was deeply involved in numerous religious activities and organisations. She was a co-founder and prominent member of the Muslim Women Association of Nigeria, established in 1974 to provide a platform for Muslim women to learn and practice Islam.
She served as the Secretary of the Association until her passing. The Association went on to establish Taoheed Nursery and Primary School in 1979, and Taoheed Secondary School, Ilorin in 1986, for which it remains the proprietor.
Hajia Munirat was also an active member of the Academy of Islamic Propagation (ACADIP), where she served as the Women’s Coordinator, and was involved with Al-Huda International. Through these platforms, she nurtured spiritual growth, especially among women and youth.
Reputed for her trustworthiness, compassion, and graceful strength, the deceased touched many lives through her philanthropic acts. A number of indigent families benefitted from her generosity. Within her family, she was a rock—playing pivotal roles in the lives of her siblings, grandchildren, and extended family. She was a mentor, a role model, and a pillar of strength to many.
To her in-laws, she was known for her kindness and accommodating spirit. Among her friends, she was cherished for her loyalty, humility, and warmth.
Former students of Queen Elizabeth Secondary School remember her as a beacon of hope—a charismatic and inspiring leader who moulded them into who they are today. The 1983 set of Ilorin Grammar School had honoured her with an award of excellence in recognition of her outstanding service.
Alhaja Funsho Oniyangi, one of her close associates and fellow member of the Muslim Women Association of Nigeria, along with members of various women’s organisations and a broad cross-section of the community, described her as a worthy ambassador whose enduring legacy would continue to inspire generations.
Hajia Munirat Ayoola Alao-Dagbo is survived by two biological children, many foster children, and siblings.
She lived life of piety, impact, faith, and service. May the Almighty Allah grant her Al-Jannah Firdaus. Ameen.
Silifat Jumoke Adeyemi is a veteran Journalist
