By Asaye Bankole
Sheikh Abdul Raheem Aduanigba, Chief Imam of Yoruba of Ilorin, Yoruba Land in Nigeria and Africa, and a respected Muslim leader, is set to receive the 2026 Southwest Legends Award in recognition of his longstanding engagement in Islamic scholarship, community affairs, peace advocacy and cultural development.
Aduanigba is among the personalities selected for recognition at the 2026 Southwest Legends Lecture and Awards, scheduled to hold on October 22 at the Olusegun Aganga Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
The event, organised by D Chronicle Media Ventures, is themed “Legends of Service: The Southwest Blueprint for Nation Building.”
The ceremony is expected to bring together academics, public officials, religious and community leaders, as well as other distinguished personalities for a public lecture, awards presentation and the unveiling of a special publication celebrating the 2026 honourees.
As Chief Imam of Yoruba of Ilorin, Yoruba Land in Nigeria and Africa, Sheikh Abdul Raheem Aduanigba has built a public profile around Islamic scholarship, religious engagement, community development and the promotion of peaceful coexistence.
He is also widely regarded by those familiar with his public activities as a religious leader who does not discriminate and relates with people across religious, cultural and social backgrounds. His leadership is characterised by an emphasis on truth, fairness, peaceful coexistence and respect for humanity.
Supporters and associates describe Aduanigba as a deeply truthful religious leader whose integrity and reputation extend beyond his immediate community. His commitment to speaking the truth and upholding his principles has contributed to the strong reputation associated with his religious and community leadership.
His public activities have also focused on promoting religious understanding, social cohesion and the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.
Born and raised in Ilorin, Aduanigba received his foundational education in Arabic and Islamic studies before proceeding to Daru Ulum College.
He subsequently obtained a Diploma in Arabic and Islamic Studies from Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin, and furthered his education outside Nigeria.
He is the founder of the United Yoruba Kingdom Oodua Foundation, through which he has participated in initiatives centred on peace, justice, cultural preservation and community development.
His inclusion among the 2026 Southwest Legends honourees highlights the religious, cultural and community engagements for which he has become known.
Professor Ambrose Ayelari, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, is billed as the Guest Speaker, while Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, former President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, will serve as Chairman of the occasion.
Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, is expected to attend as Special Guest of Honour.
The ceremony is scheduled to commence at 1 p.m. on October 22, 2026, at the Olusegun Aganga Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
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