A. B. GAMBARI, SAN @ 60

By Ayantunde Ayangbayi, JP

The Crown Prince (Ciroma) of Ilorin Emirate, Barrister Abubakar Bature Ibrahim Sulu- Gambari, SAN marks his 60 years today Wednesday, 3rd December, 2025.

As the regalia, galaxilily and respected Ciroma of Ilorin Emirate celebrates 60 years of fulfilling life journey on earth, it’s noteworthy to document, reference and spotlight the highly literate cosmopolitan and sagacious prince of Ilorin Emirate to the glory of Almighty Allah and its people.

Prince Abubakar Bature Sulu- Gambari, SAN, has a dual citizenship and was born on the 3rd December, 1965 in the city of London. His father, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Sulu- Gambari, CFR, the eleventh Emir of Ilorin Emirate described in various quarters as a celebrated Emir with a touch of professionalism. Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu- Gambari over the years demonstrated an uncommon and remarkable leadership style, which made him very popular, well accepted and respected. Today, he serves as the Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano (BUK).

His 30 years of stewardship as Emir is marked with phenomena prominence in areas like education, socio-economic development, stable political life, commerce etc. Coroma’s lovely mother is a princess of Ikirun town in Ifelodun LGA of Osun State.

As the eldest son of the Emir by right and position in the family he automatically becomes the Ciroma of Ilorin Emirate. He studied law at the University of Maiduguri and was called to Nigeria Bar in 1991 with distinctions. He holds a Master’s Degree in Law (LLM). On the 28th November, 2022 Prince Barrister Abubakar Bature Sulu- Gambari was conferred with the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, (SAN) and was sworn in accordingly by his Lordship, former Chief Justice of Nigeria – Justice Olukayode Ariwola.

He is a self-made person through dint of hard work, industry, determination and competitive intelligence, Barrister Abubakar Bature Sulu Gambari is destined for greatness in every endeavour, not minding his golden background.

His story is a tapestry of grit refined by grace. A distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist, patriot and disciplined mind set exemplifies what it means to lead with intellect and empathy. His peers describe him as visionary, positive thinker and motivator whose optimism rekindles hopes in others. Despite his towering profile, he remains grounded – guided by courage, integrity and dedicated individual devoted to service and humanity.

This writer will advise the celebrant to have a foundation to empower people/communities/Emirate indigenes through education, entrepreneurship and social welfare.

To the Crown Prince you are still working, serving and preparing for a sustainable future despite the fact that you are maintaining a targeted philanthropist that reflects growth, grace, galaxy, development, services, impact, significance and good works appreciated by Royal Families, the people of Ilorin Emirate and its environs, the state and the nation.

This journalist sees Barrister Abubakar Bature Sulu Gambari as he marks his 60th birthday anniversary that transient personal celebration – it becomes a tribute to service and purpose. His diamond age tells a powerful story: that leadership, when anchored on humility and vision, becomes not a privilege but a legacy. From the palace of Emir of Ilorin to busy Lagos business corridors, Prince Barrister Abubakar Bature Sulu Gambari, stands as a beacon of excellence, hope, Ambassador of Ilorin Emirate serving in his profession galaxily with grace, intellect and significantly.

Happy birthday to Prince Barrister Abubakar Bature Sulu Gambari, SAN – a timeless symbol of renewed hope and sense of divine purpose to humanity.

Many wish him more strength, wisdom, better understanding, continued good health, sound mind, more happy days coated with God’s love at all times. May the years ahead bring him even greater success, fulfilment and joy, Insha Allah, Amiin.

Happy Diamond Age Sir!!!

Ayangbayi, JP is a journalist/Media Consultant, based in Ilorin.