Tinubu in Ibadan: Economy Has Turned the Corner, Light at the End of the Tunnel

P President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday declared that Nigeria’s economy has “turned the corner” and assured citizens that the positive effects of his administration’s reforms will soon be felt across the country.

Speaking at the coronation of his longtime ally, Senator Abdul-Rashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, the President thanked Nigerians for their patience, resilience, and support over the past two years.

“Today, I am honoured to bring the cheering news that our economy has turned around and there is now light at the end of the tunnel,” Tinubu said.

He stressed that the reforms were succeeding because Nigerians had endured hardships and sacrifices.

Tribute to Oba Ladoja

The President commended the new Olubadan for his contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, recalling his resilience during his tenure as Oyo State governor when he overcame an impeachment attempt.

“Today is an exciting day for me, Kabiyesi. Happy birthday to you. It is also a happy day for you. All the things we started together with great expectations, and the history we shared are coming to pass,” Tinubu said, praying for the monarch’s long life and prosperity.

The President described his visit to Ibadan as a “homecoming” and thanked serving and former governors, traditional rulers, and dignitaries who graced the event.

Makinde Presents Staff of Office

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who presented Oba Ladoja with the Staff of Office and certificate, described the coronation as historic and unifying.

He said the enthronement marked the end of disputes surrounding succession in the Ibadan traditional institution.

“I also want to say all challenges associated with the Ibadan traditional institution are now over and put behind us. This means that the process is now sacrosanct,” the governor said, thanking Tinubu for honouring the people of the state with his presence.

Olubadan Promises to Uphold Trust

In his acceptance speech, Oba Ladoja expressed gratitude to God and to the people of Ibadanland, saying his ascension reflected destiny and perseverance.

“I accept not just the paraphernalia of office but also the responsibilities attached to it,” he said, while pledging to uphold the trust reposed in him by the Olubadan-in-Council and kingmakers.

He thanked President Tinubu for gracing the coronation, adding: “It is not by power, influence, connection, or money that we are here today. I appreciate God for taking me to the finishing line from the starting point as the Mogaji of the Arusa family, Isale Osi, Ibadan, in 1992 till date.”

Dignitaries Present

The event drew governors, former governors, and traditional rulers from across the country. Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun) were present, alongside former governors Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Ibikunle Amosun, and Senator Gbenga Daniel.

Tinubu was accompanied by Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji.

Also in attendance were the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Muhammad Abubakar III; the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, among others.