“THE TORCH HAS BEEN LIT.THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN.NOW, LET SERVICE ANSWER.”
Chief (Engr.) Dr. Jubril Dotun Sanusi, Okanlomo Oódua and Gbonka Olubadan of Ibadanland, has commended the people of Oyo State for their massive turnout at the inauguration of the Tinubu Torch Bearers initiative held on Monday, August 31, 2026.
Sanusi, while expressing gratitude to residents who travelled from different parts of the state and beyond to attend the event, described the gathering as more than a ceremony, saying it demonstrated the spirit, hope and collective aspirations of the people.
According to him, the impressive turnout, which brought together youths, elders, traders, artisans, professionals, community leaders and people from different walks of life, was a clear indication that the people still believe in the possibility of a better future.
He also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its representation at the occasion by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON. Sanusi described her representation through the Minister of Women Affairs as an affirmation of the importance attached to women empowerment, youth development, grassroots participation and the aspiration for a better Nigeria.
Sanusi, however, said the real heroes of the occasion were the thousands of ordinary Nigerians who turned out in large numbers, stressing that the Torch Bearer initiative was not simply about carrying a torch but about “lighting lives” and taking hope to communities.
He said the initiative should remind market women, artisans, young people and other Nigerians that their contributions matter, while also empowering women to become stronger pillars of their families, communities and the economy.
The business mogul and philanthropist noted that being a Torch Bearer comes with a responsibility to serve the people, listen to their concerns, support their aspirations and create opportunities for younger generations.
He urged those involved in the initiative to see the torch as a symbol of service, compassion, unity and action rather than an ornament.
Sanusi also appreciated traditional rulers, political and community leaders, women, youths, traders, artisans, volunteers, organisers and individuals who contributed to the success of the event, particularly those who worked behind the scenes.
He said the massive turnout was not merely about numbers but an expression of faith, participation and confidence in the possibility of a better tomorrow.
“Yesterday, Oyo State demonstrated that hope is alive,” he said, adding that the responsibility arising from the people’s confidence was for every Torch Bearer to become a beacon of hope, an ambassador of peace and a servant of the people.
Sanusi called for unity and constructive engagement, urging Nigerians to reject hatred, violence and division irrespective of their political, community, linguistic or ideological differences.
According to him, Nigeria and Oyo State remain collective responsibilities, while the future of the nation’s children must be protected by all.
He urged Torch Bearers to ensure that the enthusiasm generated by the inauguration translates into meaningful service and tangible benefits for the people.
“Yesterday, we carried the torch. Today, we must carry the responsibility. Yesterday, we celebrated. Today, we must begin the work. Yesterday, the people gathered. Today, we must ensure that their hope is not wasted,” Sanusi said.
He concluded by thanking everyone who travelled from far and near, sacrificed their time and resources, and participated in the historic gathering.
Sanusi declared that when history recalls August 31, 2026, it should be remembered as the day “the people came, the people stood together, the people carried hope, and the torch was lit.”
He prayed that the light would continue to illuminate the path towards a better, stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
