Ilorin Central Mosque goes fully Solar as Senator Saliu Mustapha donates multi-million Naira mini-grid. 

Ilorin Central Mosque goes fully Solar as Senator Saliu Mustapha donates multi-million Naira mini-grid. 

The management of the Ilorin Central Jum’aat Mosque has announced the commencement of the installation of a multi-million naira ultramodern solar-powered mini-grid system facilitated by the Senator representing Kwara Central, Saliu Mustapha

The management of the mosque announced this in a statement on Tuesday signed by Alhaji Sheu Gafar, Chairman of its Central Working Committee.

According to the statement, the project will provide power for the mosque, parts of the Emir’s palace, and the wider Muslim community in the Ilorin Emirate.

Alhaji Gafar explained that the intervention followed a request made by the mosque’s board of trustees at its annual meeting last year. He said the senator has now fulfilled his pledge, describing it as a demonstration of his commitment to the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Emirate.

“With this milestone, the mosque will now operate almost fully on clean and renewable energy, drastically reducing its monthly energy costs,” the statement read. “For the first time, uninterrupted power supply will allow the mosque to remain illuminated throughout the day and night, enabling residents, visitors, and tourists to behold its majestic beauty.”

The Ilorin Central Mosque, one of Nigeria’s most iconic religious landmarks, has in recent years sought to reduce its dependence on public electricity and diesel generators. The management committee said the new solar system will ensure more sustainable operations and enhance the worship experience.

The committee also noted that the intervention coincides with another landmark project — a ₦1 billion pledge by another philanthropist for the construction of a 250-bed ultramodern hostel at the University of Ilorin.

“These projects align with the vision of His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, for a self-sustaining Central Mosque that serves not only as a sanctuary of worship but also as a beacon of resilience, innovation, and unity,” Mr Gafar added.

On behalf of the Emir, the management expressed appreciation to Mr Mustapha and to President Bola Tinubu for supporting the initiative.

The statement described the solar project as a legacy for future generations, one that underscores the possibility of combining faith and foresight to elevate the community.