“The anniversary, being organised under the broad message of 140 years of peace, unity and Yoruba heritage, is bringing together traditional rulers, academics, cultural organisations, descendants of historic war actors, government institutions, private-sector partners and other stakeholders”
Okanlomo Sanusi partners Kiriji foundation, backs Ibadan warlords’ participation in peace treaty anniversary
By Nudoiba Ojen
Preparations for the 140th Anniversary of the Kiriji Peace Treaty have received another major boost as prominent businessman, philanthropist and cultural enthusiast, Engr Dotun Sanusi, the Okanlomo Oodua, has committed support for the preparations towards the historic event.
Okanlomo’s intervention has also secured participation of the historic Ibadan warlords’ families in the commemoration of the 140th anniversary of the peace treaty being organised by the Kiriji Heritage Conservation Foundation slated for September 21.
The significant intervention followed engagements between the Foundation and representatives of the Ibadan warlords’ families, whose ancestors played pivotal roles in the historic Kiriji War.
The Foundation, while describing the gesture as a remarkable demonstration of Engr Sanusi’s commitment to the preservation of Yoruba history, culture and traditional institutions, expressed profound appreciation to him for the generous intervention.
It described the Okanlomo Oodua’s gesture as “timely, patriotic and deeply significant to the success of the 140th anniversary commemoration”.
The Foundation stated, “The gesture goes beyond financial assistance, as it demonstrates a genuine commitment to ensuring that an important part of Yoruba history is properly represented and preserved for future generations”.
It further commended the Okanlomo for identifying with the ideals of the Kiriji commemoration and for supporting efforts aimed at strengthening peace, unity, historical consciousness and cultural preservation across Yorubaland.
Following discussions around Engr Sanusi’s passion for culture, tradition, sports, tourism and community development, the Foundation formally invited him to become a partner in advancing both the forthcoming Kiriji anniversary and its broader mission of preserving and promoting Yoruba heritage.
Engr Sanusi, who gladly accepted the invitation, subsequently nominated Mogaji, Dr Nurudeen Akinade, a senior lecturer at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, who holds a doctorate in Environmental Chemistry to represent him and his interests in the Foundation.
Interestingly, Dr Akinade is no stranger to the Kiriji heritage movement. He was involved in the 100th anniversary commemoration in 1986 and again participated in activities marking the 120th anniversary in 2006, giving him decades of institutional knowledge and a strong historical connection to the celebration.
Discussions are expected to continue on the specific capacity in which he will work with the Foundation.
His involvement is expected to strengthen the Foundation’s engagement with the Ibadan traditional establishment while also deepening the emerging relationship with Engr. Sanusi.
Engr Dotun Sanusi has over the years built a reputation as an entrepreneur, philanthropist and promoter of sports, culture and tourism through his investments and the Ilaji business ecosystem.
His expanding investment in football and sports development, alongside his interest in culture and community development, positions him as a potentially strategic partner in the Foundation’s long-term plans.
The 140th Anniversary of the Kiriji Peace Treaty will feature a major symposium on Monday, September 21, 2026, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, followed by heritage activities and a grand cultural commemoration at Imesi-Ile, Osun State.
The anniversary is being organised under the broad message of 140 years of peace, unity and Yoruba heritage, bringing together traditional rulers, academics, cultural organisations, descendants of historic war actors, government institutions, private-sector partners and other stakeholders.
