Popular Ibadan-based philanthropist and Okanlomo Oodua, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, has disclosed that no fewer than 250 communities across Oyo State and beyond have formally approached him for intervention in the provision of electricity and potable water, describing the situation as a reflection of the deepening hardship at the grassroots level.
Chief Sanusi stated that inadequate access to basic social amenities remains one of the most pressing challenges confronting rural and semi-urban communities, stressing that his philanthropic interventions are aimed at bringing immediate relief while complementing government efforts.
Speaking while playing host to the newly inaugurated executives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, led by its Chairman, Comrade Akeem Abas, at Ilaji Sports and Resorts, Akanran, the philanthropist revealed that interventions have so far been successfully executed in about 200 communities, with intensive efforts ongoing to reach the remaining 50 communities.
According to him, the projects—largely funded through his personal resources and strategic partnerships—are focused on sustainable solutions that directly improve the living conditions of residents.
“The volume of requests we receive on a daily basis is overwhelming, but it clearly shows the extent of deprivation in many communities. While government has a huge role to play, philanthropists must also rise to the occasion to ease the suffering of the people,” Chief Sanusi said.
The Chief Executive Officer of Ilaji Sports and Resorts and Ilaji FM, further explained that his intervention strategy goes beyond project execution, as quarterly engagement meetings are held with beneficiary communities to assess their needs, monitor progress, and ensure the sustainability of completed projects.
He added that government officials are deliberately invited to the commissioning of intervention projects in order to expose them to the realities on ground and stimulate swift and effective government response to community challenges.
A statement issued by the Secretary of the Oyo State NUJ, Comrade Dayo Adu, quoted Chief Sanusi as saying that the growing dependence on private interventions underscores the urgent need for renewed government focus on grassroots development.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the NUJ, Oyo State Council, Comrade Akeem Abas, congratulated Chief Sanusi on his recent installation as the Okanlomo Oodua by the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, describing the honour as a recognition of his selfless service to humanity.
Abas also commended the philanthropist for his consistent support to the NUJ as a patron, his unwavering commitment to the growth of journalism in Oyo State, and the establishment of Ilaji FM, which he said has continued to provide a strong platform for public enlightenment and professional media practice.
He appealed to Chief Sanusi to sustain his support for the union and journalists in the state, noting that a strong media remains critical to good governance and societal development.
