The role of job creation in economic development cannot be overemphasized, especially in a country where youth unemployment remains a significant challenge. In Oyo State, one man has taken it upon himself to bridge this gap through strategic investment in various sectors—Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, the Jagun Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Chairman and CEO of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort.
Through his Ilaji conglomerate, which includes Ilaji Hotels, Ilaji Sports Resort, Ilaji Farms, Ilaji Travels and Tours, Ilaji Running School (ongoing), Ilaji Clinic (ongoing), and Ilaji FM, Chief Sanusi has emerged as a beacon of hope for youths, providing employment opportunities and contributing immensely to the socio-economic development of Oyo State.
Ilaji Hotels – A Hub of Hospitality and Employment
The hospitality industry remains one of the largest employers of labor globally, and Ilaji Hotels stands out as a top-tier establishment in this sector. Located in the serene environment of Akanran, the hotel attracts tourists, corporate guests, and event , providing an avenue for youth employment in hotel management, catering, security, and customer service.
Ilaji Hotels has not only provided direct employment but has also created business opportunities for vendors, artisans, and suppliers, thereby expanding the economic impact beyond direct employment.
Ilaji Sports Resort – Developing Talents and Career
Chief Sanusi’s vision extends beyond business to youth empowerment through sports. Ilaji Sports Resort has grown to become a premier sports facility, attracting athletes, football teams, and sports enthusiasts.
The resort has been instrumental in discovering and nurturing young sports talents, providing them with training, mentorship, and exposure to professional opportunities. Many youths have found their careers through Ilaji Sports Resort—whether as footballers, fitness trainers, facility managers, or media personnel.
The resort has hosted several national and international sporting events, positioning Oyo State as a key player in the sports industry while generating employment for coaches, medical personnel, and administrative staff.
Ilaji Farms – Agriculture as a Pathway to Youth Empowerment
Recognizing the potential of agriculture in job creation, Chief Sanusi expanded his investments to the agricultural sector with Ilaji Farms. The farm serves as a training ground for young farmers, equipping them with modern agricultural techniques while providing employment in crop production, poultry farming, fishery, and agro-processing.
With Nigeria’s growing emphasis on agricultural sustainability and food security, Ilaji Farms has become a pioneer in commercial farming, offering a viable career path for the youth in agribusiness.
Ilaji Travels and Tours – Boosting the Tourism Industry
Tourism remains an untapped goldmine in Nigeria, and Chief Sanusi is leading efforts to position Oyo State as a top tourist destination through Ilaji Travels and Tours.
The travel agency provides job opportunities for youths in tour guiding, logistics, hospitality management, and travel consultancy. By attracting tourists and investors, the agency is not only promoting Oyo State’s rich culture but also boosting economic activities in the region.
Ilaji Running School (Ongoing) – Grooming Future Athletes
With an increasing focus on sports development, Ilaji Running School, which is currently under construction, is another bold initiative aimed at nurturing athletic talents.
The running school will serve as a training ground for young athletes, providing them with professional coaching and international exposure. The project will create jobs for trainers, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and administrative personnel, further expanding employment opportunities for youths in sports.
Ilaji Clinic (Ongoing) – Healthcare and Employment Opportunities
Healthcare remains a critical sector that requires skilled professionals, and Ilaji Clinic, once completed, will provide quality medical services while creating job opportunities for doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab technicians, and administrative staff.
The clinic will not only serve the immediate community but also enhance medical tourism in the state, making Ilaji Resort a holistic destination for leisure, sports, and wellness.
Ilaji FM – Giving the Youth a Voice
The media industry is a powerful tool for education, entertainment, and empowerment, and Chief Sanusi has extended his vision into this space with Ilaji FM.
The radio station provides employment for broadcasters, journalists, sound engineers, marketers, and content creators. More importantly, it serves as a platform for youth expression, public enlightenment, and community engagement.
Beyond creating jobs, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi has become a role model for leadership, vision, and community service. His philanthropy, commitment to infrastructure development, and dedication to youth empowerment distinguish him as one of Oyo State’s most impactful entrepreneurs.
His initiatives have helped reduce unemployment, curb social vices, and provide a platform for young people to thrive. Through mentorship, capacity building, and sustainable investments, he continues to transform lives and shape the future of Oyo State’s youth.
The Ilaji conglomerate is more than just a business empire—it is a movement for economic transformation and youth empowerment. Through Ilaji Hotels, Ilaji Sports Resort, Ilaji Farms, Ilaji Travels and Tours, Ilaji Running School, Ilaji Clinic, and Ilaji FM, Chief Sanusi has set a precedent for **sustainable development and strategic youth engagement.
As Nigeria strives to address youth unemployment, Chief Sanusi’s model of job creation, skills development, and economic inclusion serves as a blueprint for others to follow. His legacy as an employer of youths and a champion of progress will undoubtedly inspire future generations.
