• President commends businessman’s philanthropy, youth development initiatives and political mobilisation ahead of 2027 general elections

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Ibadan-born businessman and philanthropist, Chief Engineer Dotun Jubril Sanusi, on his birthday, praising his contributions to community development, youth empowerment and the political fortunes of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State.

The President described Sanusi as a loyal member of the ruling party, a notable philanthropist and an influential political mobiliser working towards securing victory for the APC in the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

Tinubu’s congratulatory message was contained in a statement issued on Saturday, October 17, 2026, by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

In the statement, the President commended Sanusi for his commitment to humanity, particularly his contributions to the development of Ibadan and Oyo State, noting that his philanthropic activities and investments in youth development had distinguished him as a prominent son of the state.

Tinubu also acknowledged Sanusi’s contributions to the APC, expressing appreciation for his support for the party and his efforts to mobilise its members and supporters ahead of the next general elections.

“Chief Sanusi is a loyal member of our party and has been mobilising the faithful to ensure victory in the forthcoming general elections,” the President stated.

Highlighting Sanusi’s professional background, Tinubu noted that the Ibadan-born businessman had built a successful career in the oil industry, working with several multinational companies, including Halliburton, Saipem, Hanover and Beckfield, among others.

Following his career in the industry, Sanusi ventured into entrepreneurship by establishing TNL Drilling Services, a company that has recorded significant growth. He is also the chairman of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort, a hospitality and sports development facility located in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The President’s message highlighted Sanusi’s transition from working for established enterprises to building businesses of his own, describing his achievements as part of his contributions to economic activity and development in the state.

Beyond his business interests, the President praised Sanusi for demonstrating compassion, generosity and a sustained commitment to improving the welfare of people in his community. According to Tinubu, Sanusi has remained connected to his roots in Ibadan while extending his contributions to the wider Oyo State community.

“As a businessman of note, you have demonstrated compassion, generosity and an unwavering commitment to humanity, giving back to your community roots, Ibadan and Oyo State at large,” the President said.

Tinubu’s remarks underscore the importance of private-sector contributions to community development, particularly through philanthropy, educational initiatives and investments in opportunities for young people. Sanusi’s activities in these areas have also helped establish his public profile beyond the business community, bringing him into the spotlight as a philanthropist and political figure in Oyo State.

The President particularly commended Sanusi for his role in mentoring young people and creating opportunities for talent development through educational and sporting initiatives. He cited the establishment of ICAST School and Ilaji Soccer Academy as examples of Sanusi’s commitment to youth development.

Tinubu noted that the soccer academy provides opportunities for young footballers to develop their abilities and pursue professional careers, including opportunities for recruitment by football teams in Spain and Malta.

“From the reports reaching me, you are also a great mentor to our youth, as shown by your establishment of ICAST School and Ilaji Soccer Academy, providing a fertile ground to develop soccer talents for recruitment by Spanish and Maltese teams,” he stated.

The recognition of these initiatives highlights the potential role of private investment in education and sports in expanding opportunities for young Nigerians. Through football academies, young talents can receive structured training and exposure to professional football pathways, while educational institutions can provide an avenue for academic advancement. Such initiatives are particularly significant in a country where sports and education remain important channels for youth empowerment, employment and social mobility.

Tinubu also used the occasion to acknowledge Sanusi’s political commitment and personal support, particularly his contributions to the APC in Oyo State. The President expressed appreciation for what he described as Sanusi’s invaluable contributions to the party and his unwavering personal support.

The commendation comes as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties and their supporters positioning themselves for the contests.

In Oyo State, where the APC is seeking to strengthen its political standing, the mobilisation of party members, grassroots supporters and influential stakeholders is expected to remain an important feature of preparations for the elections. Tinubu’s reference to Sanusi’s mobilisation efforts signals the President’s recognition of his role in the party’s political activities in the state.

However, the statement did not provide specific details of the mobilisation strategies or activities attributed to the businessman.’

The President further described Sanusi as an exemplary son of Ibadan and Oyo State, commending his humility and kindness. According to Tinubu, Sanusi’s character and contributions have earned him admiration among those who interact with him.

“I do not doubt that you are an exemplary son of Ibadan and indeed of Oyo State whose humility and kindness continue to be admired by everyone who meets you,” the President said.

The statement presents Sanusi’s business achievements, philanthropic activities and political engagement as interconnected aspects of his public profile. For Ibadan and Oyo State, the recognition also draws attention to the contributions of private individuals and business leaders who invest in enterprises, education, sports and community welfare.

Concluding his message, the President prayed for continued good health, greater accomplishments and many more years of meaningful service to humanity for the celebrant.

“As you celebrate your birthday today, I pray that Almighty God will continue to grant you good health, greater accomplishments and many more fulfilling years of service to humanity,” Tinubu stated.

The birthday message reinforces the President’s appreciation of Sanusi’s contributions to business, philanthropy, youth development and the APC.

For Sanusi, the congratulatory message represents a public acknowledgment of his activities across these areas, particularly his efforts to combine entrepreneurship with community development and political participation.

As preparations for the 2027 general elections continue to shape political engagement across the country, his role within the Oyo APC is likely to remain a point of interest among party members and political observers.

The statement was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, and dated October 17, 2026.