19/02/2025
Ilorin-born Islamic Scholar and Kwara Polytechnic lecturer, Ustadh Lukman Isalekoto values Knowledge, and Integrity.
In the heart of Ilorin, a city known for its deep Islamic heritage and academic excellence, Mukhtar Lukman Abiodun, fondly known as Ustadh Lukman Isalekoto, was born in Ilorin. From his early years, he was nurtured by the rich traditions of scholarship and service from Isalekoto, Ilorin. Growing up in a society that valued both religious and Western education, Ustadh Lukman displayed an exceptional passion for knowledge, discipline, and community development.
Sheikh Busari Mukhtar Isalekoto is a renowned Islamic scholar from Ilorin, hailing from Isalekoto. His dedication to the advancement of Islam in Ilorin is notable and significant. He was the father of Ustadh Lukman Isalekoto, whom he also taught the Qur’an and other Kewu-Ile studies before Ustadh Lukman proceeded to Darul Uloom (1990–1995) and later to Markaz, Agege (1995–1997).
His western educational journey began at Baboko Community Secondary School in Ilorin, where he excelled in his studies, particularly in finance and administration. This foundation led him to the University of Ilorin, where he pursued a B.Sc. in Accounting (1999-2003). His commitment to academic excellence did not end there, he furthered his education by obtaining an MBA in Management Administration (2009-2012) and later, an M.Sc. in Accounting and Finance from Birmingham City University, UK (2015-2016). These achievements not only enhanced his expertise but also positioned him as a distinguished professional in the field of financial management.
Lukman Isalekoto’s career journey is a testament to his dedication to public service and institutional development. In 2003, during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Bayelsa State, he served as a teacher, an experience that strengthened his leadership and mentoring skills.
Upon returning to Ilorin, he joined the University of Ilorin in 2006, where he began his career in financial administration. Over the years, he held several key positions, including:
~ B.Sc. in Accounting (1999-2003)
~ Faculty Accountant of Health Sciences (2008-2009)
~ University Mandate’s Writer and Cash Officer (2009-2011)
~ Coordinator, Centre for Ilorin Studies (2011-2013), where he contributed immensely to the documentation and preservation of Ilorin’s cultural and historical heritage in the university.
~ Faculty Accountant of Communication and Information Sciences (2016-2024)
~ Faculty Accountant of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2024)
~ Faculty Accountant of Engineering (2024-Present)
~ Kwara Polytechnic Part-Time Lecturer in Accounting Department since 2019 till date
According to his background knowledge, he upheld the highest standards of financial accountability and transparency, ensuring that university funds were managed efficiently to support academic and infrastructural growth in the university.
Beyond his professional career, Ustadh Lukman Isalekoto is a man deeply committed to faith, community service, and mentorship. Fluent in English, Arabic, + Yoruba, he has used his linguistic skills to bridge gaps between different knowledge systems, advocating for a balanced approach to modern education and Islamic scholarship through writing, radio programs and public speaking.
His passion for sermonizing and guiding the younger generation has made him a respected figure in religious and academic circles. Whether through his work as an accountant where many argued about his profession anytime he was delivering lectures in any occasion, his role in preserving Ilorin’s historical legacy, or his mentorship efforts, he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to societal progress. This also keeps him beyond his environs.
Today, as the Chief Accountant at the University of Ilorin, Ustadh Lukman Isalekoto continues to uphold his values of integrity, excellence, and service. His contributions to academia, financial governance, and religious education stand as a beacon of inspiration for the next generation. His commitment towards greatness is overemphasized, he serves as a role model to many young champs.
His life story is not just one of professional success but of purpose-driven service, proving that true greatness lies in the impact one has on society. Through his work, he has reinforced the ideals of accountability, education, and faith, a legacy that will continue to inspire many for years to come.
Àwòko Kwara Writes
[email protected]
