Nestled in the heart of Kwara State, the historic city of Ilorin serves as a beacon of Islamic culture and scholarship in Yoruba Land. Central to this rich heritage is the distinguished Chief Imam of Ilorin, a title synonymous with spiritual leadership, scholarship, and dedication to the Muslim Ummah.
This Chief Imam of Ilorin biography explores the life and legacy of Shaykh (Dr) Muhammad Bashir Saliu, the 12th and incumbent Chief Imam of Ilorin, whose life has been a testament to the pursuit of Islamic knowledge, communal unity, and spiritual guidance. His leadership at the Ilorin Central Mosque and contributions to the Ilorin Emirate exemplify devotion to Almighty Allah and service to humanity.
Table of Contents
Chief Imam of Ilorin Biography: Life, Career & Impact 2025
Chief Imam of Ilorin Biography/ Who is the Chief Imam of Ilorin?
Chief Imam of Ilorin Early Life and Education
Chief Imam of Ilorin Personal Life
Chief Imam of Ilorin Journey as Imam
Chief Imam of Ilorin Spiritual Impact
Chief Imam of Ilorin Social Media Presence
Some Lesser-Known Facts about Chief Imam of Ilorin
Chief Imam of Ilorin Biography/ Who is the Chief Imam of Ilorin?
Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Saliu was born in 1950 in the culturally rich city of Ilorin and hails from the Alfa Omo family of Baboko. His father, Imam Saliu Omo Onida Abdulkadir, was the seventh Chief Imam of Ilorin, while his mother, Alhaja Awawu Imam Saliu, was from the renowned Agogo family of Agaka, Ilorin. This noble lineage profoundly influenced the young Bashir, instilling a deep commitment to Islamic learning and leadership.
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The Chief Imam’s life has been characterized by unwavering dedication to his faith and his community. Over the decades, he has emerged as a revered Islamic scholar, a celebrated teacher, and a pivotal figure in the spiritual and social fabric of the Ilorin Emirate.
Chief Imam of Ilorin Early Life and Education
The Chief Imam began his educational journey at Magaji Baboko Qur’anic School in Ilorin, where he mastered the fundamentals of the Qur’an. Between 1963 and 1965, he furthered his education at the school of Shaykh Abubakar Sakama in the Sakama Quarters of Ilorin. His thirst for Islamic knowledge then took him to Ile Oba Kumasi under the guidance of Shaykh Musa Nuhu Elere, where he studied for six formative years.
In 1971, he gained admission to the Al-Mahad Al-Azhar Institute of Arabic and Islamic Studies, established by Shaykh Muhammad Kamaluddeen Al-Adabiy. This prestigious institution, affiliated with Al-Azhar University in Cairo, provided him with a rigorous education in Arabic and Islamic Studies, under the tutelage of both Egyptian and indigenous scholars. He graduated in 1974, equipped with the knowledge and wisdom that would define his spiritual leadership.
Chief Imam of Ilorin Personal Life
The Chief Imam is a family man, married with several children. His youngest wife, Alhaja Bashirat, remains a vital support in his personal and spiritual life. In 2021, he experienced a personal loss with the passing of his wife, Alhaja Hafsot Bashir. Despite these challenges, his devotion to his family and community remains unwavering, embodying the values of resilience and faith cherished by the Muslim community.
Chief Imam of Ilorin Career
Before his appointment as Chief Imam, Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Saliu had an illustrious career as an educator. He served under the defunct Ilorin Local Schools Management Board, teaching at Woru LSMB School and later at Kwara State Polytechnic Primary School. His dedication to education also saw him serve at Baptist LSMB Primary School, Surulere, from 1980 to 1983.
As a teacher and promoter of Islamic learning, he established several schools, emphasizing the importance of education in fostering spiritual and social growth. His contributions extend to the Ilorin Emirate Council and the Kwara State Council of Ulama, where he has held significant leadership roles.
Chief Imam of Ilorin Journey as Imam
On October 15, 1983, Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Saliu was appointed the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin by the 9th Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr) Sulu Gambari, a decision that underscored his exceptional scholarship and character. He has since led the Ilorin Central Jumaat Mosque with distinction, providing spiritual guidance and fostering unity within the Muslim community.
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Under his leadership, the Chief Imam has worked with three Emirs, including the current Emir, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari. His leadership has been marked by a commitment to promoting peace, offering prayers for communal harmony, and ensuring the adherence to Islamic values within the Ilorin Emirate.
Chief Imam of Ilorin Awards
The Chief Imam’s contributions have been recognized both locally and internationally. In 2012, he received the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) from President Goodluck Jonathan. He was also conferred with an honorary doctorate degree by Belaze University, United Kingdom, in 2013. Additionally, in 2020, the Ilorin Emirate Youth Development Association honored him for his enduring impact on the Ilorin Muslim community.
Chief Imam of Ilorin Spiritual Impact
The Chief Imam has served as a spiritual beacon for the Muslim Ummah, emphasizing the importance of worship and adherence to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. His sermons and teachings have guided countless adherents, promoting the values of peace, compassion, and unity. His work as a spiritual leader has reinforced the role of the Ilorin Central Mosque as a center for Islamic affairs and communal worship.
Chief Imam of Ilorin Social Media Presence
Despite the digital age, the Chief Imam maintains a traditional approach to his role, with no personal social media presence. However, his legacy and contributions are frequently highlighted by various platforms, ensuring that his message reaches a broad audience.
Some Lesser-Known Facts about Chief Imam of Ilorin
- The Chief Imam is deeply rooted in the legacy of Shehu Alimi, the founder of the Sokoto Caliphate.
- He played a significant role in establishing schools affiliated with the Ansarul Islam Society.
- His tenure has witnessed a surge in Islamic learning and cultural renaissance in the Ilorin Emirate.
- He frequently collaborates with notable figures like Senator Saliu Mustapha and Professor Oladosu to promote community development.
- The Chief Imam resides close to Ahmadu Bello Way, a prominent area in Ilorin.
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Conclusion
The life of Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, the Chief Imam of Ilorin, is a rich tapestry of scholarship, spiritual leadership, and unwavering service to the Muslim Ummah. From his early education at Magaji Baboko to his leadership at the Ilorin Central Mosque, his journey reflects a deep commitment to the teachings of Islam and the unity of the Ilorin Emirate. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire generations to come, as he continues to lead with wisdom, humility, and devotion to Almighty Allah.