President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria’s economy is on the rebound and already showing signs of recovery, following months of painful but necessary reforms introduced by his administration.
He made this declaration yesterday in Ibadan during the coronation of former Oyo State governor, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who was officially installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland at a colourful ceremony held at Mapo Hall.
Addressing a massive crowd, Tinubu likened the economic hardship Nigerians have endured to “a painful surgery” but assured that prosperity was now in sight.
“Today, I am honoured and proud to give you the cheering news that the economy has turned the corner. There is a bright light at the end of the tunnel. Your suffering is the pain of a painful surgery, but it is now giving way to growth and prosperity ahead,” he said.
The President praised Nigerians for their perseverance, resilience, and support during the reform process, while also congratulating Oba Ladoja, describing him as a man of “impeccable resilience, unwavering determination, and steadfast reliability.”
He recalled their shared political history as senators and governors, commending Ladoja’s comeback story, perseverance, and leadership qualities.
Governor Seyi Makinde, who presented the staff of office to the new Olubadan, said all disputes surrounding the Ibadan traditional chieftaincy system were now over.
He noted that the ascension of Oba Ladoja had been met with excitement across Ibadan, describing it as proof that the people want the tradition upheld.
“Today, history was made. The President landed at the Ibadan Airport with the first wide-bodied aircraft ever to land at the facility. This shows that the era of Oba Ladoja has begun to witness positive developments. His reign will be peaceful and bring progress to Ibadanland,” Makinde said.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Ladoja, who turned 81 on the day of his coronation, said his reign would focus on service, urban renewal, and development.
He appealed to President Tinubu to ensure the creation of Ibadan State from the current Oyo State before May 2027.
“There is nothing else I am looking for in life. Since God spared me till today, what remains is service to Ibadan, Oyo State, Yorubaland, Nigeria, and Africa,” the monarch declared.
He promised to rebuild slum communities, unite Ibadan people, and uphold the revered Olubadan tradition.
The coronation attracted an impressive list of dignitaries including former governors Rabiu Kwankwaso, Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Ibrahim Shekarau, and Ibikunle Amosun.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, described Oba Ladoja as a peace-loving bridge-builder, while former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, hailed his “integrity, courage, and service to humanity.”
Royal fathers, Ibadan chiefs, and traditional rulers across Yorubaland also graced the event, marking it as one of the most memorable coronations in recent history.
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