The Committee on Annual Traditional Ramadan Programme has admonished religions' leaders in the country to always embark on preaching that will further promote the spirit of tolerance, patriotism and perseverance among their adherents.

The statement was issued in Ilorin by the Chairman and Secretary of the group, Alhaji Jimoh Garba and Engineer Zubair Tunde Olohuntoyin respectively, as part of activities marking the 20th anniversary of the 11th Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari.

The group also wished the Emir long life, good health and sound wisdom in piloting the affairs of the Emirate to a successful and meaningful development. According to the statement, "it is only in peaceful environment that growth and development can occur. All these lies in the ability of the politicians to lead well and the religious clerics to guide and direct well.

"We sincerely felicitate with our father on this great occasion and we also wish him more years of remarkable achievements on the throne . Citizens should also endeavour to compliment the sacrificial spirit of the state government as well as traditional institutions in the state in ensuring that peace continue to reign in the land."

It added that, "There is no doubt that the Ilorin Emirate had in the last 20 years developed, habouring people of diverse ethnic and religious background without rancour. "It is with profound gratitude to God that we all rejoice and celebrate with our father on this historic occasion. It is indeed another milestone in the annals of our dear state, Kwara.

"As an outstanding Justice of the Court of Appeal before he ascended the exalted throne as the 11th Emir of Ilorin on November 11, 1995 following the demise of Mallam Aliyu Abdulkadir, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari has continued to ensure that the status of the people of Ilorin and Kwara State at large continue to dominate the global map through his fervent prayers and personal efforts."

The statement further reiterated that Ilorin and Kwara state remained the most peaceful state in the country and urged other traditional rulers in the country to imbibe and emulate the sterling qualities of the Emir of Ilorin to further promote the desired national integration.