A Birthday That Will Remain In My Heart Forever — Dotun Sanusi Thanks Well-wishers

Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, the Okanlomo Oodua and Gbonka Olubadan of Ibadanland, has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and other dignitaries who joined him to celebrate his 58th birthday at Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort, Akanran, Ibadan.

Sanusi, in a statement issued on Sunday, October 18, thanked political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, professional associations, traders, artisans and other guests who travelled from different parts of the country to attend the celebration on Saturday, October 17.

He described the gathering as an unforgettable moment in his life, saying the love and sacrifices shown by the guests had left him deeply moved.

The businessman also appreciated President Tinubu for his birthday greetings and recognition, while extending his gratitude to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Honourable Zack Adedeji, for his goodwill.

Sanusi commended the Olubadan, Oba Ladoja, for his fatherly affection, guidance and blessings, while acknowledging the support of 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.

He also thanked Senator Abdulaziz Yari, Senator Yunus Akintunde, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Honourable Remi Oseni, Mama Hannah Ogunesan and other political stakeholders who attended the celebration.

The celebrant acknowledged the efforts of members of the Asiwaju/JDS Movement, the President Tinubu 2027 Campaign Organisation and supporters across the 33 local government areas of Oyo State.

He said the turnout was remarkable, noting that the Olorunsogo-Akanran Road experienced severe traffic congestion as guests made their way to the venue.

Sanusi disclosed that he was particularly touched by reports that Senator Alli had to walk part of the journey from the Circular Road junction to Ilaji because of the traffic.

He also expressed appreciation to Muslim and Christian leaders, traditional worshippers, market women, traders, artisans, farmers, transport workers, students, journalists, labour leaders and civil society representatives for identifying with him.

The businessman reserved special appreciation for people living with disabilities and members of the Ibadan sickle cell community, describing their goodwill as deeply precious to him.

He further thanked community security volunteers, hunters, local security groups, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and other security agencies for their service and efforts towards public safety.

Sanusi also commended the management and staff of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort for their dedication in handling the large gathering and the logistical demands of the event.

Reflecting on the celebration, he said the most important aspect was not the size of the crowd or any record associated with the event, but the people whose presence demonstrated love, friendship and unity.

As he begins his 59th year, Sanusi prayed for peace and prosperity in Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria, urging political leaders and citizens to ensure that political differences do not undermine their common humanity.

He also prayed for improved security, employment opportunities, quality education, better healthcare and greater prosperity for Nigerians.

The founder of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort concluded by thanking everyone who sent birthday greetings, offered prayers, travelled to celebrate with him or contributed to the success of the event, saying their kindness would remain in his heart.