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Senator Saliu Mustapha

Full Name:
Saliu Mustapha
Electoral Intent:
Speculated Gubernatorial Aspirant – Kwara State (2027)
Current Political Role:
Senator, Kwara Central (2023 till date)
Date of Birth:
September 25, 1972 (53 years)
State of Origin:
Kwara State
Hometown:
Ilorin
LGA:
Ilorin East
Ward:
Gambari
Political Party:
All Progressives Congress (APC)

Biography

Saliu Mustapha, popularly known as the Turaki of Ilorin, is a distinguished Nigerian politician, businessman, and philanthropist. Born into the family of Alhaji Issa and Hajiya Maryam Mustapha of the prominent Ile-Ilorin, he has built a reputation as a bridge-builder in Kwara politics, combining grassroots appeal with more than two decades of partisan politics at the national level.

Known for his grassroots appeal, philanthropy, and loyalty to the APC, he is widely regarded as a frontline figure in Kwara politics. He is the Founder and Chairman of the Saliu Mustapha Foundation, which has impacted thousands through education, healthcare, and community development initiatives.

Education

  • St. Bartholomew Primary School, Wusasa, Zaria
  • Command Secondary School, Kaduna
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Mineral Resources Engineering, Kaduna Polytechnic

Professional Career

Saliu Mustapha is an accomplished international businessman with significant interests in mining, real estate and construction. As the founder and chairman of the Saliu Mustapha Foundation, he has championed numerous community development initiatives, focusing on youth empowerment, digital literacy, and poverty alleviation. His business acumen and philanthropic efforts have earned him widespread respect and influence in Kwara State and beyond.

Traditional Titles & Community Honors​

  • Turaki of Ilorin Emirate – Conferred by the Emir of Ilorin (2021)
  • Maiyegun of Obbo-Aiyegunle – Conferred by the Owa L’Obbo of Obbo-Aiyegunle (2022)
  • Aare Atunluse of Oro-Ago Kingdom – Conferred by the Oloro of Oro-Ago (2024)
  • Agba’akin of Isin Kingdom – Conferred by the Olusin of Isanlu-Isin (2024)
  • Grand Patron, Ilorin Emirate Students’ Union – Honored as chief advisor to students within the emirate (2025)

Political Journey

Saliu Mustapha’s political career spans over two decades, marked by strategic roles in party administration and developmental politics. His journey includes:

2001 - 2002
-
National Publicity Secretary, Progressive Liberation Party (PLP)
2003
-
Co-founder and National Publicity Secretary, Progressive Action Congress (PAC)
2003 - 2007
-
National Deputy Chairman, All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP)
2007
-
House of Representatives Candidate, Ilorin East/Ilorin South Federal Constituency (ANPP)
2011 - 2013
-
Founding NEC member & National Deputy Chairman, Congress for Progressive Change (CPC)
2013
-
CPC delegate that signed the merger agreement creating All Progressives Congress (APC)
2013 - Present
-
Prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the merger
2018
-
Contested APC primaries for Kwara State governorship (disqualified mid-primary; party later apologised)
2022
-
Aspirant, APC National Chairmanship (stepped down for consensus candidate)
2022 - 2023
-
Emerged as APC candidate for Kwara Central Senatorial District, defeating incumbent Senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, and won the 2023 senatorial election
2023 - Present
-
Senator representing Kwara Central in the 10th National Assembly
2023
-
Sworn in as a member of the Pan-African Parliament

2027 Political Outlook

Senator Mustapha’s political journey reflects his loyalty to progressive ideals and grassroots empowerment. A consistent APC member, he has dispelled defection rumors and reaffirmed his commitment to the party. His growing popularity, traditional recognition, and philanthropic record fuel speculation that he may contest the 2027 Kwara State Governorship Election, positioning him as a unifying figure with both elite and grassroots appeal

In The News

Disclaimer

This biography is compiled from publicly available sources and are intended for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that every detail is complete or error-free. If you have more accurate, verifiable or updated information, please share it with us at contact@demo.ademoyafricargo.com. We welcome all constructive feedback.