Campus News

Onireti charges scholars to emulate Alabi’s industry

The Director, Centre for International Education (CIE), University of Ilorin, Prof. Lateef Onireti Ibraheem, has charged scholars, particularly those in the field of Arabic and Islamic Studies, to emulate the industry and integrity of a former Head of the Department of Arabic, Prof. Isa Alabi Abubakar, for the two disciplines to produce more outstanding professionals.

Prof. Onireti, who is also the Grand Mufti of Ojoku in the Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State, made this appeal in Ilorin penultimate Saturday (April 5,2025) while speaking to UNILORIN Bulletin on the sideline of the public presentation of two books in honour of  Prof. Abubakar.

The Director explained that Prof. Abubakar’s distinguished career, which has been marked by unparalleled expertise in Arabic poetry and unbendable integrity, has been a beacon of inspiration to countless students and scholars.

While recalling that it was Prof. Abubakar who supervised his Ph.D. thesis and those of several others, Prof. Onireti said that he has had the privilege of witnessing the unwavering dedication of the renowned Arabist to the pursuit of knowledge and particularly his unrelenting passion for the Arabic language.

He added that Prof. Abubakar’s groundbreaking research publications and seminal works have not only enriched the field of Arabic poetry but also paved the way for future generations of scholars.

Prof. Onireti remarked that the launch of Prof. Abubakar’s compendium of Arabic poetry titled “Sawtul Khaatir” (Voice of the Heart) is a testament to his enduring legacy, and the Festschrift in his honour is a fitting tribute to his remarkable contributions.

The Director explained that the collection of essays and poems celebrating Prof. Abubakar’s contributions stand as a poignant reminder of the profound impact he has had on the world of Arabic Literature.

 While describing Prof. Abubakar as a doyen in the field of Arabic poetry in Nigeria, Prof. Onireti said that he was delighted to be part of the events put together to pay tribute to Prof. Abubakar’s remarkable achievements, particularly his tireless efforts at promoting the beauty and richness of Arabic poetry.

Prof. Abubakar, who is recognised by the authorities of the famous Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt, as the best Arabic poet from the West African sub-region, retired from the services of the University of Ilorin in 2023 on his attainment of the age of 70.

The event was attended by several dignitaries including the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Kwara State University, Malete, Prof. Moshood Mahmud Jimba; a former Dean, Postgraduate School, University of Ilorin, Prof. Badmas Olanrewaju Yusuf; a former Deputy Chief Imam of the University of Ilorin Central Mosque, Dr Yusuf Kolawole Jimoh; and a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Arabic, University of Ilorin, Dr Mahmud Musa Danjuma, among others.