By Zainab Rauf President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria’s economy has “turned the corner” and is on a path to recovery, assu...
By Zainab Rauf
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria’s economy has “turned the corner” and is on a path to recovery, assuring citizens that the economic reforms introduced by his administration are beginning to yield positive results.
The President made this known on Friday in Ibadan during the coronation ceremony of Oba (Senator) Abdul-Rashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
According to a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their patience and resilience amid the hardships brought about by the reform process.
“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,” the President was quoted as saying.
He credited the progress to the support and sacrifices of Nigerians and promised that the benefits of the policies would soon become evident across the country.
The President, visibly elated, also paid glowing tribute to the new Olubadan, who is a long-time political ally. He described Oba Ladoja as a symbol of perseverance, recalling his political struggles, including surviving an impeachment during his tenure as Governor of Oyo State.
“As President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, it is a great honour to witness this history unfold,” President Tinubu said, offering prayers for a long and impactful reign for the monarch.
The coronation was also attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, who presented the staff of office and certificate of recognition to the new Olubadan.
Governor Makinde described the event as a turning point for the Ibadan traditional institution, stating that disputes surrounding the ascension process had been resolved.
“All challenges associated with the Ibadan traditional institution are now over and put behind us. This means that the process is now sacrosanct,” he declared, while thanking the President for honouring the people of Ibadan with his presence.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Ladoja said his journey from Mogaji (family head) in 1992 to becoming Olubadan was shaped by destiny, not power or influence. He thanked President Tinubu for attending the event and pledged to uphold the responsibilities of his new role.
“It is not by power, influence, connection, or money that we are here today,” the monarch said. “I accept not just the paraphernalia of office but also the responsibilities attached to it.”
Other dignitaries present at the ceremony included Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun), as well as former governors Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Ibikunle Amosun, and Gbenga Daniel.
President Tinubu was accompanied by Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu and Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji.
Traditional rulers at the ceremony included the Sultan of Sokoto and Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III; the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye.
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