C172 pilot reported an alternator failure during a night time personal flight which resulted in a total electrical failure. The pilot was able to relay a special handling request via cell phone and complete a safe landing.

Narrative

While enroute from ZZZ1 to ZZZ; an alternator failure occurred; causing the lost of all lights; GPS; both radios; transponder; oil temperature gauge; and both fuel quantity gauges. The malfunction was first noticed at approximately 22.5 miles southwest of ZZZ. While performing the decent checklist; a red light next to the ammeter was on; and the ammeter was showing a discharge. I proceeded to troubleshoot the problem by cycling the alternator twice. The alternator failed to restart with both attempts. At this point; the was approximately 4 miles southwest of Location X. I proceeded to shut down all non-required lights (strobes; taxi light) and attempted to contact ZZZ tower twice to inform them of the situation and [request priority handling]; unfortunately; both attempts to make contact were unsuccessful. Once over Location X; I continued to fly northbound; where I began loosing power to all my electrical equipment. Follow this; I retrieved my Sentry Mini portable ADS-B and GPS receiver to assist with my situational awareness and navigate to the midfield left downwind of Runway X. There I proceeded to [make] 360 left turns while contacting FBO using my cell phone. Contact with the FBO was successful and I was able to give them my call sign; position; and situation. They were then able to contact ZZZ Tower and relay the information. I was then given priority over other approaching aircraft; and proceeded to receive landing clearance with a steady green gun light signal from tower. I [landed] safely on Runway X and proceeded to taxi back to parking using Taxiway 1; 2; 3. Once there I met with ZZZ Fire Department and an airport employee that requested all my information including name; phone number; address; fuel on board; number of passengers; and type of aircraft. The airport employee also requested and received a photo of my pilot's license. Afterwards; I spoke with an air traffic controller from ZZZ Tower; who also requested my full name; phone number; and a brief description of the situation. No reports were requested of me by air traffic control. I was also informed that I was exempt from any and all pilot deviations due to the [nature] of the event.