The Emir of Ilorin approves Prince Aliyu Kolapo Abdulkadir, son of the 10th Emir and retired NIMASA Director, as District Head of Ballah, Asa LGA
Emir of Ilorin Names Prince Kolapo Abdulkadir as New District Head of Ballah – Royal Lineage Meets Maritime Expertise
In a significant traditional milestone for the Ilorin Emirate, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, has officially approved the appointment of Prince Aliyu Kolapo Abdulkadir as the new District Head of Ballah in Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The decision, announced on January 25, 2026, followed a rigorous and competitive selection process within the Emirate, where Prince Abdulkadir emerged as the standout candidate among several qualified contenders for this historic role.
At 68, Prince Abdulkadir brings a powerful blend of royal pedigree and professional excellence. He is a direct son of the 10th Emir of Ilorin, the late Alhaji Aliyu Abdulqadir Baba Agba, anchoring his deep ties to the Emirate’s revered traditional heritage.
Beyond his lineage, the new district head boasts a distinguished career in public service. He retired as a Director from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in Lagos, where he served for many years. Holding a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree, his legal training and administrative experience are expected to strengthen his leadership in preserving customs, culture, and community governance.
The Emir formally confirmed the appointment and offered heartfelt prayers for Prince Abdulkadir’s success.
“May he be granted the wisdom to govern his domain with justice,” the Emir said, invoking divine guidance and protection over his tenure.
The announcement was conveyed in a statement signed by the Emir’s Personal Assistant, Dr. Abdulraheem Muritala, underscoring the Emirate’s commitment to choosing leaders who merge timeless traditional values with modern competence and integrity.
The Ballah community in the strategic Asa LGA axis is gearing up for a grand formal reception to welcome their new custodian, who will oversee the area’s rich heritage and foster unity.
The appointment has drawn widespread commendation, including from the Ilorin Emirate Youth Development Association (IEYDA), which described it as “timely and well deserved.” In a statement, IEYDA’s National President, Alhaji Mohammed Uthman Jagunmo, said: “Prince Aliyu Kolapo Abdulkadir has consistently demonstrated humility, loyalty, and a strong commitment to the values and traditions of Ilorin Emirate. We are confident that he will discharge his responsibilities as District Head of Ballah with wisdom, fairness, and an resolute dedication to the peace, unity, and development of his people.”
This move reinforces the Ilorin Emirate’s tradition of blending royal bloodlines with proven capability, setting the stage for impactful leadership in Ballah. Read More
