Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, the Okanlomo Oodua and Gbonka Olubadan of Ibadanland, has expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Honourable Zacch Adedeji, traditional rulers, religious leaders, political stakeholders and residents of Oyo State for their support and goodwill during his 58th birthday celebration.
Sanusi, who is the founder of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort, Akanran, Ibadan, said the celebration, held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, was an unforgettable experience that demonstrated the power of love, unity and communal solidarity.
In an appreciation message dated October 18, Sanusi said he was deeply moved by the large turnout of guests from different religious, political, professional and social backgrounds.
He attributed his gratitude to Almighty God, describing the love and sacrifices demonstrated by those who attended as more valuable than material possessions and personal achievements.
The businessman expressed special appreciation to President Tinubu for his birthday greetings and recognition, describing the gesture as an honour he would cherish.
He also thanked Adedeji for his goodwill and support, while praying for divine wisdom, good health and strength for the President in discharging his responsibilities.
Sanusi acknowledged the contributions of members of the Asiwaju/JDS Movement, the President Tinubu 2027 Campaign Organisation and other political stakeholders who identified with the celebration.
He particularly appreciated his royal father, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, alongside members of the Olubadan-in-Council, the Ooni of Ife, the Alaafin of Oyo, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, the Aseyin of Iseyinland and other traditional rulers who extended their goodwill.
He described the traditional institutions as priceless custodians of Yoruba history, culture and heritage, adding that their presence and prayers meant a great deal to him.
The celebrant also acknowledged the support of prominent political figures, including Senator Abdulaziz Yari, Senator Yunus Akintunde, Honourable Remi Oseni, Mama Hannah Ogunesan and Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, as well as other political leaders and stakeholders.
Sanusi expressed gratitude to members of the APC Women Wing in Oyo State, political support groups and JDS Movement members across the state’s 33 local government areas for their mobilisation and participation.
He noted that the large turnout resulted in severe traffic congestion along the Olorunsogo-Akanran Road, with some guests reportedly enduring long journeys and delays to attend the event.
The businessman also commended Muslim and Christian leaders, traditional worshippers, market women, traders, artisans, farmers, transport workers, professional associations, journalists, teachers, students, labour leaders and civil society groups for their solidarity.
He reserved special appreciation for people living with disabilities and members of the Ibadan sickle cell community, describing their goodwill as particularly precious to him.
Sanusi further recognised community security volunteers, local hunters, Ibadan Guards, Agbekoya members, OPC groups and other security stakeholders, alongside officers of the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and other security agencies.
He thanked the management and staff of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort for their efforts in managing the large crowd and coordinating the celebration under demanding circumstances.
According to him, Ilaji represents more than a business establishment, describing it as a family, a dream and a platform for service to humanity.
Reflecting on the celebration, Sanusi said the significance of the gathering lay not in the number of attendees or claims of records broken, but in the love, prayers and sacrifices of the people who celebrated with him.
He added that the occasion reinforced his belief that the greatest legacy anyone could build was a lasting place in the hearts of others.
As he begins his 59th year, Sanusi prayed for peace, security, prosperity, employment opportunities and development in Oyo State and Nigeria.
He also called for peaceful and credible elections, improved education and healthcare, prosperity for traders and farmers, and unity across religious and political divides.
“I may not be able to shake every hand. I may not be able to embrace every person. I may not be able to mention every name. But I will never forget the love you showed me,” he said.
Sanusi concluded by thanking President Tinubu, Adedeji, the Olubadan, other royal fathers, religious and political leaders, the JDS Movement, the people of Ibadanland and Oyo State, and the staff of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort for making his 58th birthday memorable.
He prayed that Almighty God would reward everyone who contributed to the celebration and bless them beyond their expectations.
