The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor SulymanAbdulkareem, has said the institution was committed to enhancing academic excellence and unique history of Ilorin emirate.
Abdulkareem stated this Thursday in Ilorin during the book launch and award presentation by the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies of the university.
The book was entitled, “Human Security and the Survival of Ilorin Culture”.
The vice-chancellor stated that the university believed in sustaining the mutual benefit between host community and the academics.
He added that the Centre for Ilorin Studies was as a result of international best practices of strengthening the relationship with immediate communities.
Abdulkareem added that it was an opportunity to immortalise the works of great scholars associated with the birth or any other lineage with Ilorin.
In her address, Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, said the title of the book was apt, as security implies freedom from danger, encompassing measures put in place to safeguard lives and property from harm or loss.
Tallen, who was represented the Director Women Affairs, MrsEletuAduke, added that “violence negates activities, discourages investors, leads to capital flight and reduces investment and creates high unemployment.”
She pointed out that most times, women are at the receiving end during conflict, adding that women’s contributions to conflict resolution could not be overlooked.
“The women peace and security agenda promote the view that effective incorporation of gender perspective and women’s rights have a positive impact on the lives of everyone in conflict area,” she said.
Director of the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies of the university, Dr Ibrahim Jawondo, said the centre was charged with the responsibility of collecting, cataloguing and preserving Ilorin-related studies, in form of artifact, manuscript and publications.
He also stated that scholars have discovered that the history of Ilorin emirate is connected to history of different groups in Nigeria and beyond.
“Ilorin is not only regarded as cultural melting pot, a local Mecca but also a super diplomat whose influences has spread far and wide and is indelible,” he said.
Highlights of the programme included the presentation of meritorious awards to Senator Bola Tinubu, Alhaji Sani Zangon-Daura and AlhajiAbubakarKawu-Baraje among others.
Recipient of the posthumous awards also included late AlhajaJeminatuIsama and late AlhajaAishat Sulu-Gambari. (NAN)
