President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday declared that Nigeria’s economy has made a positive turnaround, attributing the progress to the economic reforms introduced by his administration over the past two years.
Speaking in Ibadan, Oyo State, during the coronation ceremony of his long-time ally and friend, Senator Abdul-Rashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Tinubu expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their resilience, sacrifices, and patience throughout 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 said.
Tinubu commended the new Olubadan for his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, noting his courage in overcoming the challenges of an illegal impeachment during his tenure as governor of Oyo State. He described the monarch as a leader whose perseverance and resilience remain a source of inspiration.
The President, who also marked the monarch’s birthday at the event, offered prayers for long life, prosperity, and continued relevance. He described his presence in Ibadan as a “homecoming,” recalling the shared political history he has with Oba Ladoja.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State formally presented the new Olubadan with the staff of office and certificate of authority. The governor hailed the coronation as the resolution of longstanding disputes within Ibadan’s royal families, declaring that the succession process to the throne was now settled and sacrosanct.
“It is a great honour to celebrate the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. All sons and daughters of Ibadan, both at home and abroad, are proud of this historic moment. I also want to say all challenges associated with the Ibadan traditional institution are now over and put behind us,” Makinde said.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Ladoja described his ascension as a journey of destiny, reflecting on his rise from Mogaji of the Arusa family, Isale Osi, Ibadan, in 1992, to the throne of his forefathers. He acknowledged the trust placed in him by the Olubadan Council and kingmakers, promising to uphold the responsibilities of the office with integrity.
“I accept not just the paraphernalia of office but also the responsibilities attached to it. It is not by power, influence, connection, or money that we are here today. I appreciate God for bringing me to the finishing line,” the monarch said, while also thanking President Tinubu and Governor Makinde for their support.
The event attracted prominent dignitaries, including Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun). Former governors Donald Duke (Cross River), Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (Kano), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), and Senator Gbenga Daniel (Ogun) were also in attendance.
President Tinubu was accompanied by Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji. Traditional leaders present included the Sultan of Sokoto and co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye.
