Aliko Dangote
President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has committed to funding a N1.1 billion ultramodern hostel at the University of Ilorin to bolster the financial sustainability of the Ilorin Central Juma’at Mosque while providing student housing.
During a press briefing in Ilorin on Sunday, Alhaji Shehu Abdulgafar, Secretary of the Mosque’s Board of Trustees, announced that the 250-bed hostel, initiated by the Mosque’s management, will direct its rental income to maintain the Mosque’s operations.
He confirmed that “a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with the University of Ilorin,” allowing the Mosque to manage the facility for 21 years before ownership transfers to the university.
Abdulgafar added that Dangote has pledged “a monthly N5 million donation to support the Mosque’s operations until the hostel is fully functional,” ensuring both student accommodation and the Mosque’s upkeep.
Abdulgafar also revealed that Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Central and the Turaki of Ilorin, is donating a multi-million-naira solar-powered mini-grid to the Mosque, nearing completion.
He stated, “This project will provide uninterrupted clean energy to the Mosque and parts of the Emir’s palace, significantly cutting energy costs.”
The initiative will allow “the Mosque to remain illuminated day and night, showcasing its historic grandeur for residents, visitors, and tourists.”
The Secretary praised Mustapha’s longstanding financial support for the Mosque, alongside contributions from former Senate President Bukola Saraki, former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
He noted that “these twin projects by Dangote and Mustapha align with the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari’s vision for a self-sustaining Mosque,” blending modern infrastructure with cultural preservation.
